ALTON BAY (New Hampshire) - AUTHORITIES are on the scene of a massive Easter fire that has damaged dozens of buildings on the grounds of a Christian centre in New Hampshire.

Firefighters tell the News 9 television station in Manchester that 52 buildings burned at the Alton Bay Christian Conference Center, 48km north-east of Concord. The buildings are cottage-type seasonal homes.

There are no reports of civilian injuries. One firefighter has been hurt.

The cause of the fire hasn't been determined.

The center's website says its purpose is to change lives by 'encouraging commitment to Jesus Christ and offering opportunities to mature in one's Christian life style.' It says it tries to accomplish this through evangelism, encouragement of believers and equipping Christians to be effective leaders.

The centre was founded in 1863. It sits along New Hampshire's biggest lake. -- AP