A FIRE broke out next to a block of flats in Southend while residents slept.

Fire crews were called to Norwich Close shortly after midnight last night to attend the fire, which broke out between a bungalow and a block of flats on the road.

Resident Damien Becks, who lives near the area, said residents sprinted out of their homes to ensure people were safe.

He said: "Everyone rushed out to make sure everyone got out their homes safely, fire crews arrived and put out the blaze. Everyone's safe thankfully.

"Most of the burning took place between a bunglow and a two storey flat block."

Essex Fire Service has been contacted for comment.