E-bike charger fire in Chelmsford leaves flat badly damaged

Firefighters were called to the flat in Gloucester Avenue, Chelmsford

A flat has been badly damaged after an e-bike on charge caused a fire.

Two crews of firefighters were called to Gloucester Avenue in Chelmsford, Essex, at about 13:15 BST on Tuesday.

The blaze was put out just after 13:45 BST but it caused extensive damage to the ground floor, and the first floor suffered smoke and heat damage.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service watch manager Andy Edwards said the occupants were not harmed, and were being supported by the Red Cross.

"Neighbours heard a loud bang and saw sparks coming out of the front door," he said.

"Thankfully the occupants noticed the fire quickly and were able to get out unharmed but it could have been a very different story.

"The incident highlights the importance of charging e-bikes and e-scooters safely and making sure chargers and batteries are in a good condition."

The occupants of the flat were not harmed in the fire and are being supported by the Red Cross