A BLAZE which broke out in the bin chute on the top floor of a three-storey block of flats is being investigated as possible arson.

Three fire crews were called to a fire in Windmill Steps, Kursaal Way, Southend, at 7.24pm on Saturday.

Crews wore breathing apparatus, due to the chute being smoke logged, and used two hose reels to extinguish the fire within half and hour.

A high pressure fan was used to clear the area of smoke.

Police and the fire service are investigating.