Thurrock Council is aware of a fire in a 13th floor council flat in George Tilbury House, Chadwell St Mary.

The fire service was called at 9:20am and had extinguished the fire by 10:30am. It was contained to one flat and other properties on the same floor were evacuated by fire crews, as a precautionary measure. Two people have been affected by smoke inhalation as a result of the fire.

Council Housing Officers are on the scene and working with all residents affected by the fire. The occupants of the flat which suffered the fire will be supported by housing officers to find suitable accommodation. Officers are also working tirelessly to ensure that other residents on the same floor can return to their flats as quickly as possible.

No other flats in the building have been affected and the building's stay put policy was implemented to keep other residents safe.

More information about the fire can be found on the Essex Fire Service website at: https://www.essex-fire.gov.uk/incidents/i9053/