A HAMPSHIRE family were today assessing the damage caused to their home after a fire totally destroyed the roof of their home.

In stark contrast to the peaceful cul-de-sac in Botley, the tiled roof of the house in Blossom Close was left as a giant hole with burned wooden beams sticking into the air.

Charred remains of furniture were also seen outside the home where the family of four lived.

The family was asleep at the end of terrace house when the mother heard the fire crackling in the roof space above her head.

She immediately raised the alarm and evacuated the home along with her husband and two children, thought to be aged between seven and ten.

Firefighters from Hightown and Botley spent three hours tackling the blaze that broke out just before midnight.

It is believed the fire started behind a light fitting in the bedroom, prompting a warning from the fire service to homeowners to ensure new electrical regulations are met when installing down lighters.

Due to the damage the family were not allowed back into the property and were helped by Hampshire Fire and Rescue's victim support unit.

They are now staying with friends and relatives and have declined to speak to the Daily Echo.

A spokesman for Hampshire Fire and Rescue said the exact cause of the fire is still being investigated.

"We are still investigating the exact cause of the fire, which destroyed about 70 per cent of the roof. There was additional water damage to the property.

"We would also like to stress the importance of having smoke alarms inside family properties," he added.