Watford tower block fire sees 94 flats evacuated

People were evacuated from a number of flats in the tower block on Garsmouth Way

Two boys have been arrested after residents were evacuated from 94 flats following a fire at a tower block.

It started at about 04:50 BST at the 17-storey Abbey View on the Meriden Estate in Watford.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said the fire started in a bin storage area and spread to the flats.

One person was treated for breathing in smoke, and police said two boys, aged 13 and 14, had been arrested in connection with the investigation.

Residents from all 94 flats in the block had to make their way out "as a matter of caution", a spokesman from Watford Community Housing, which manages the block, said.

He said everyone had been able to return by the afternoon, apart from those living in five flats, which were too badly damaged.

The fire service sent eight engines to the scene at the time of the blaze, and police and the ambulance service also attended.

The fire was put out at about 06:20.

Several of the lower floor flats were affected

Det Insp Chris Parperi, from Hertfordshire Police, said: "Thankfully no-one was seriously injured during the incident, but it could easily have been a very different story.

"Two arrests were swiftly made and inquiries are continuing at this time to establish the circumstances around what happened.

"As part of this, we are appealing for anyone with information to please come forward."

Fire and smoke damage to some flats can be seen above the area where it is thought the fire started

Tina Barnard, chief executive of Watford Community Housing, said: "While this was undoubtedly a frightening incident for everyone involved, we are pleased that the building was evacuated safely, and most people have now been able to return to their homes.

"The building performed well, in line with our expectations, to contain the fire and limit its spread, helping to keep the residents safe.

"Staff were on site rapidly after we were made aware of the situation and are working closely with residents to arrange alternative accommodations where necessary."