FIREFIGHTERS who tackled a rush-hour blaze in a Chinese takeaway in Colchester town centre believe it was started by oil catching fire.

The fire erupted at the Shanghai House, at the junction of Osborne Street and Arthur Street shortly after 4pm yesterday.

Fire crews reported one-third of the building, measuring 50m by 10m, was alight while the entire premises was smoke-logged.

Two crews from Colchester fire station were sent to the scene and extinguished the blaze shortly after 4.30pm.

A ventilation fan was used to clear the premises of smoke.

One man, aged in his sixties and thought to be connected to the takeaway, suffered smoke inhalation and was treated at the scene by paramedics.

An East of England Ambulance Service Trust spokesman confirmed the man was conscious and breathing and his condition was not believed to be serious.

Acting Colchester station officer Stephen Smith said: “It’s a fire in the kitchen which has moved along the venting system.

“It is believed to be an oil fire and there is a fair bit of damage to the rear of the kitchen and the back of the building, but fortunately it is not structural.”

Mr Smith also offered advice to restaurants and takeaways, encouraging them to keep their premises free of oil.

He added: “However, sometimes we understand it is hard to do.

“Fortunately there were fire alarms in there and fire extinguishers.

“All the alarms went off and we would advise people to check them regularly.”

Osborne Street was closed in both directions between Stanwell Street and St Botolph’s Street as emergency services arrived.

The road was re-opened in both directions by 5pm.