Crews tackle fire at two 'fully alight' houses

Crews from six fire stations were called to the scene

A blaze that engulfed two houses had been brought under control, a fire service said.

Crews from six stations in Essex were called to Katonia Avenue in Mayland at about 16:20 BST.

An update at 20:00 advised people living nearby to keep their windows and doors closed because there was still so much smoke in the area.

Incident commander Dan Wastell said: "Crews have worked hard and the fire is now under control. It is two semi-detached houses, which are fully alight."

Essex Fire and Rescue said an investigation into the cause would take place on Monday morning.

Crews from Burnham, Maldon, South Woodham Ferrers, Witham, Tollesbury and Rochford attended the scene, with an aerial platform from Chelmsford.