A COUPLE have thanked firefighters after their quick actions saved a bungalow from going up in flames.

Crews from Clacton, Weeley and Frinton were called to Inglenook, Clacton, just before 1pm on Wednesday.

The roof of their bungalow caught light after flames spread from a burning shed in their neighbour’s garden. It is not yet known how the fire started.

The retired couple, who have lived at the property for 12 years, said: “It’s in a right state – we were in shock at first.

“The firefighters were here within minutes and even tided up – they have saved the bungalow, although the fire has left a right mess.

“We are going to have to get the roof repaired and all the ceilings inside. Every room will have to be redecorated because of the smoke and water damage.

“We were in the garden at the time – it’s lucky we were here.”

The fire, which also completely destroyed the shed, was extinguished by 2.35pm.

Station officer Mark Oxley said: “The fire has caused a lot of damage.

"A water pipe burst and that created a lot more damage.

"Initial crews did an excellent job in containing the fire and preventing it spreading further in the roof.

“It is thanks to the quick thinking and hard work of firefighters that this blaze was contained and extinguished as quickly as it was."