A CHURCH was evacuated and emergency services rushed to the scene after a suspected gas leak.

Trinity Methodist Church, Clayhill Road, Basildon was providing shelter for the homeless when concerns were raised about a potentially noxious gas.

The church was evacuated at 11pm last night. 

Witnesses at the scene reported seeing at least three police cars, an on-call fire officer and two fire engines stationed at the church with blue lights and sirens.

Fortunately it turned out to be a false alarm.

A spokesman for Essex County Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the call had been made with good intent and the church was declared safe.

At the time, a group of homeless people were staying in the church, as it offers shelter to them every Sunday night, and around six volunteers.

Steve Nice, property steward for the church, said an alarm was raised when someone detected a smell of noxious gas.

He said: “Thankfully, it was a false alarm, but there was definitely something that emitted a form of noxious gas.

“The fire crews found no evidence of any malfunctions or danger within the building or its structure.

“It was good of the emergency services to attend so quickly, it’s very fortunate it was nothing more severe.

“We offer shelter to the homeless every Sunday as part of a scheme we share with other churches across south Essex, who host them on one night every week.”

Mr Nice added: “The volunteers were quick to raise the alarm and the authorities were very sufficient in their response, I think everyone was pleased all of our guests could still enjoy a full night of sleep in the comfort and stress-free environment of the church.”

Residents near the area reported being woken up by a large group of flashing lights and sirens.

Samantha Johns, who lives on Clayhill Road, said: “The sirens woke the whole house up, I had no idea what was going on.

“There was a huge gathering of the police and fire service near the church entrance, I think they had people evacuated.”

A fire service spokesman said: “We were called to a possible gas leak, but it was quickly confirmed to be a false alarm. No further action was taken.”

A spokesman for Essex Police confirmed officers attended to assist the fire service.