FIRE crews in Colchester were rushed off their feet after two fires broke out in just a few hours.

Colchester firefighters were called to a house fire about 10.20am in Byron Avenue, Lexden.

The fire is believed to have started by a faulty tumble dryer in the ground floor utility room.

They were later called to a flat fire in Avon Way about 2.30pm.

Both fires caused severe damage to the properties.

FULL REPORT IN WEDNESDAY'S GAZETTE