Seven-storey city centre block evacuated after fire

Firefighters believe the blaze broke out in flat on the fifth floor

A block of flats was evacuated in Norwich city centre after a fire broke out in the early hours.

Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service responded to the blaze, in Geoffrey Watling Way, at about 03:00 GMT.

Approximately 60 residents left the seven-storey building for an hour, before they were allowed to return home.

Fire crews managed to extinguish the fire on the fifth floor and left the scene just after 05:00.

An aerial ladder was used

Crews from North Earlham, Hethersett, Sprowston, Wroxham, Wymondham and Norwich's Carrow Fire Station were all despatched.

They used a thermal imaging camera and an aerial ladder to assist with the call.

Most of the residents left the block on their own volition but the occupants of six flats were told to exit the building.

The cause of the fire is unknown, but it is believed that the incident was isolated to one flat which was cordoned off.

An investigation was expected to get underway.