WATCH: Horrific fire in Colchester leaves residents homeless

The fire spread to four flats in Golden Noble Hill, off Military Road, just after 10am.

By 11am, the occupants had been safely evacuated.

The roof collapsed within minutes, a witness said. Photos: Newsquest

Nearly four hours later at 1.30pm, fire crews were still tackling "hotspots" within the building with an aerial ladder platform from Chelmsford.

One woman, whose home overlooks the building, said: "It was really scary.

"I just saw fire engines rush up the hill so we went outside and then I saw loads of smoke.

Flames had engulfed the roof. Photo: Submitted

"When I walked further up, I saw what was happening through a gap in between houses.

"Flames were coming out the roof and then it just collapsed within minutes.

"I feel really bad for them.

"A well done also needs to be said to a pair of postmen who helped look for hydrants and whatever else they could do at the time."

Photo: Henry Cordy-McKenna ​

One of those evacuated residents sat on floor outside with the few belongings she managed to take before being evacuated.

She had no idea what was happening to the homes next door.

"I was just sitting in my flat when a policeman knocked the door and said I'd need to leave for a couple of hours," she explained.

"I went shopping, came back and still haven't been able to be let back in. What I have with me here is what I bought at the shops.

"I'm so cold."

A spokesman for Colchester Council confirmed the flats belong to Colchester Borough Homes.

He said: "Anyone who has been affected and needs temporary accommodation, or support, Colchester Borough Homes will be providing that for them."

Photo: Henry Cordy-McKenna ​

By 4pm, Essex Fire and Rescue stated firefighters had put out the fire and "left the premises in the hands of the local authority to make safe".

A spokesman added: "A full investigation into the cause of the fire will go ahead in due course."