Fire crews tackle serious fire at thatched cottage in Braintree
Around 15 crews were called at the height of the fire
Firefighters have been working through the night to tackle a blaze at a thatched cottage in Braintree.
Crews were called to Cressing Road just after midnight, with around 15 on the scene at its height.
Three remain there this morning damping down hotspots.
The fire service says the occupants managed to get out and crews helped to save as many personal items as possible.
The roof of the property has been fully destroyed and an investigation will now take place to find the cause of the fire.
Station Manager Howard Midwood said: “Sadly there has been extensive damage to an historical thatched cottage but thanks to the skill and professionalism of the firefighters, the fire was stopped from spreading to the neighbouring properties and as many personal possessions as possible could be saved from inside.
"Our control room team also did a fantastic job, co-ordinating the response.”
Cressing Road remains closed this morning between Coggeshall Road and Trotters Field with drivers encouraged to find alternative routes.