THREE households are due to be rehoused after losing everything in a suspected arson.

Only some Attlee Gardens residents have been able to return to their homes after a fire two weeks ago.

Others had been staying in temporary accommodation.

Karen Williams, head of housing management at Colchester Borough Homes said: "We are rehousing three households, whilst repairs works are undertaken in their homes.

"The utilities are now reconnected to the properties that weren't severely damaged in the incident.

“A letter has been hand-delivered to all Attlee Gardens' residents to provide them with an update of what they can expect the next steps to be in the coming weeks."

A 34-year-old, from Colchester, will have to answer bail later this month having been arrested and released on suspicion of arson.

Ms Williams added: "The community housing officer has had a visible presence since the incident, offering support and reassurance.

“We understand what a difficult time this has been for the families involved and we have offered to put anyone affected by the fire in touch with support or counselling services."