A flat has been badly damaged following a fire.

Fire crews were called to a flat in Carlton Avenue, Westcliff, after a neighbour noticed smoke coming from the property.

When firefighters arrived at the flat they reported that the fire was in the lounge and the property was completely smoke logged.

Firefighters extingished the fire by 2.40am.

The cause has been recorded as accidental, due to an electrical fault.

The flat has suffered 100 per cent smoke damage and 50 per cent fire damage in the lounge, and smoke damage throughout the rest of the property.