Detectives are investigating the cause of a blaze which ripped through a popular pub and hotel.
More than 50 firefighters tackled the blaze at the Old Windmill in Rettendon after reports that people were trapped.
Crews were called to the 100ft by 70ft building in South Hanningfield Road at about 5am and firefighters using breathing apparatus rescued a man in his 40s from the building within half an hour.
He was taken to hospital by ambulance for checks.
Police have now been called in after fire investigation teams suspected the blaze could have been started deliberately. Fire experts will be sifting through the debris of the first floor where the fire is believed to have started.
Crews from Chelmsford, Wickford and Billericay and four other stations were on the scene but a brigade spokeswoman said everyone in the building was safe and accounted for by 6.05am.
Firefighters battling the blaze at the Old Windmill in Rettendon
By James Taylor
Reporter's e-mail: james.taylor@notes.newsquest.co.uk
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