insiderblmFirefighters have tackled a blaze at a nursery after its roof became engulfed in flames.
Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to the blaze at Smart Tots nursery in Horse Fair, Banbury, at about 17:00 GMT on Tuesday.
It said staff had evacuated the nursery and no injuries have been reported.
Incident commander Matt Chapman said crews extinguished the fire at the three-storey building, but the roof and loft suffered serious damage.
The fire service is looking into the cause of the blaze, although Thames Valley Police has said it is not thought to be suspicious.
The children from the nursery took refuge at the nearby Whately Hall Hotel during the operation, which involved four fire engines.
Banbury Fire Station manager Dave Edge said: “This was a significant incident where the fire in the roof quickly took hold.
“I want to praise staff at the nursery for their quick actions in evacuating the children which of course is the most important priority in a fire like this.
“Although there is significant damage to the roof, I am very proud of how the crews tackled the blaze and the fact that there was no spread to the neighbouring properties shows how well trained our crews are.”
