Southend: Fire crews battle blaze that destroys chippy

Three fire crews battled the blaze at The Frying Pan, Soutchurch Road in Southend yesterday evening.

Essex Fire Service bosses say The restaurant has been destroyed by the fire and the property above has also suffered significant smoke damage after it had very quickly spread to neighbouring properties.

Dramatic images from the scene show the crews fighting to put out the huge flames while thick smoke bellowed into the sky.

At 7.45pm, the fire service said: "The fire is now out. Three new crews will take over at the scene shortly to continue eliminating remaining hotspots within the property.

"Part of the road remained closed for the rest of Wednesday evening. A full fire investigation to establish the cause will take place once the scene has fully cooled."

Damage - The business - pic by Essex Fire Service

Witnesses say residents left their homes above were standing besides the scene at about 9pm. The road was still cordoned off and all emergency vehicles were still present, including paramedics, fire and police.

Smoke - Crews on scene - pic by Essex Fire Service