THE MENTAL health ward of Basildon Hospital had to be evacuated after a fire broke out.

More than 30 people had to be taken off the smoke-filled ward at 7.30pm and were unable to return to the building because of the damage.

Three fire engines, a rescue tender and an aerial platform arrived at the hospital and the corridors had to be ventilated.

Station Officer Tony Clark said: "The fire started in a bed in a dormitory room and caused heavy smoke logging throughout an entire wing of the hospital. No one was hurt and crews overcame a complicated situation to extinguish this fire quickly and effectively.

"The fire was contained to the room and caused extensive damage to it."

Crews suffered complications because of the secure windows on the ward, which meant they were unable to get hoses through them or open them fully to let smoke out.

Mr Clark added: "Once the fire was out crews remained behind to carry out salvage operations using a special vacum to remove water, although the wing has suffered smoke damage throughout and is not inhabitable in its current condition."

An investigation was being carried out into the cause of the fire, which was thought to be suspicious.