Fire in derelict building to be investigated

Crews from Clacton, Colchester, Frinton and Weeley worked to extinguish the fire in sections

An investigation is to take place after a derelict town centre building went up in flames.

Eight crews attended High Street in Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, at about 17:25 BST on Tuesday and worked to extinguish the fire from within the property.

The blaze, which affected an area of 40m (131ft) by 14m (49ft), was under control by 23:00 and emergency efforts were scaled down.

Essex fire service said officials would determine the cause of the blaze on Wednesday.

High Street remained closed at the junction with Carnarvon Road earlier.

Four crews were initially called to the scene and used an aerial ladder platform to tackle the flames.

A further four crews were later requested as a "large amount of debris" meant firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were needed.

Residents were advised to keep their windows and doors closed throughout the evening.