FIREFIGHTERS from Haslemere and Grayshott were called to a lightning strike at a farmhouse in Cripplecrutch Hill, Ramsnest Common, near Chiddingfold, during the storms which battered the area on Monday. Nearly 60 per cent of the roof was destroyed, scattering bricks and slates, but a woman inside was unhurt. The shock wave went through the house and blew kitchen cabinet doors off. l The lightning also took out phone lines to neighbouring properties, including The Mulberry bar and restaurant. l Also on Monday, a tree struck a car being driven along Lynchmere Road, Hammer. The emergency services were called to the scene but the male driver was unhurt. l A willow tree at Grayswood was damaged and collapsed over the village sign, and workmen cleared trees from roads throughout the area.

AFTER this week's severe weather, Trading Standards officers are warning householders whose homes may have been damaged to beware of rogue traders. They have drawn up guidelines to protect homeowners from being ripped off. Rob Scovell, West Sussex Senior Trading Standards, officer said: "We're issuing the warning because in the past, severe weather – such as the Selsey Tornado – has brought a marked increase in complaints about rogue builders operating in the county." Trading Standards advice is: l Insurance: If you are insured, speak to your insurance company in the first instance. l Unsolicited calls: Under no circumstances deal at the door with unsolicited calls from traders offering repairs or saying things like: "I've noticed you have some tiles off the roof." Mr Scovell said: "Ask them to leave and get proper quotes from reputable traders. Our 'Buy With Confidence' register has a wide range of traders you can trust because they have undergone rigorous vetting. Visit http://www.buywithconfidence.&quot">www.buywithconfidence."