Takeaway temporarily closes after windows blown out

Essex Pizza and Chicken has closed down while refurbishment works can be carried out

Management at a takeaway restaurant said faulty equipment was the cause of a suspected minor explosion that destroyed their shopfront.

Firefighters were called to Essex Pizza and Chicken in Great Yeldham, near Halstead, at about 15:30 BST.

The shopfront was damaged and images showed glass windows on the ground.

In a statement posted online, the eatery said it would have to close temporarily.

"As some might have seen we had a fault with our equipment, which means we need to refurbish our shop," a spokesperson said.

"Rest assured we are already on repairs and will be getting ready to reopen soon."

Firefighters, paramedics, an air ambulance and police officers were all called to Bridge Street in Great Yeldham

Colin Jackson, who noticed the aftermath while on his way home from work, said he saw as many as five fire engines at the scene and an air ambulance.

"It had blown the front of the shop out, but the emergency services were so prompt and ready [to respond] to any outcome, but I am just grateful that, I don't believe, there were any serious injuries," he told the BBC.

Essex Pizza and Chicken said it hoped to reopen soon

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said the incident in Bridge Street occurred some time before its crews arrived.

"They carried out precautionary checks to ensure there were no gas leaks, confirmed that electrics were isolated, and made sure the area was safe," a spokesperson said.

Police and the ambulance service were also called to the scene - and an air ambulance attended.

The BBC contacted Essex Pizza and Chicken for further comment.