An investigation is continuing this afternoon into the cause of a fire in a block of flats in Southend.
The fire broke out on the ground floor of a retirement complex in Southchurch Boulevard just after midnight.
Fire crews were forced to evacuate some of the residents inside, while telling others to remain inside and shut their windows.
Firedightere were able to extinguish the flames by 2am but said there had been some damage to communal areas.
Group Manager Mark Eaglestone said: "Our crews acted quickly to control the fire while we implemented the building's stay put policy.
"The fire spread was contained to the single flat, although there is smoke logging in communal areas on the ground, first and second floor.
"By following the stay put policy, with residents staying in their flats and keeping their doors and windows closed, residents remained safe while we extinguished the fire.
"The building also has automatic smoke vents, which work by opening automatically when a fire is detected, and means smoke can escape out of the building rather than building up in a confined space."
All photos by Aaron Chesham
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here