Man charged with arson after Clacton fire
A shop was completely alight when firefighters arrived at the scene
- Published
A man has been charged with arson after three shops and several homes were damaged by fire.
Emergency services were called to West Avenue, in Clacton, Essex, on Monday at 00:35 BST to reports of a blaze.
About 40 firefighters were sent to the scene, and 70 residents were evacuated from their homes and taken to a refuge centre set up in a nearby hotel, before later moving to a leisure centre. There were no reports of any injuries.
Christian Capes, 42, of Beach Road, Clacton, was charged with arson with intent to endanger life. He is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on Wednesday.
Tendring District Council said 10 residents who had to leave their homes were still in temporary accommodation.
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