FIREFIGHTERS from across north Essex worked into the night tackling a blaze which destroyed a thatched cottage, leaving a couple homeless.

More than ten fire crews were called at 8.15pm on Friday to a thatched roof fire in Wix Road, in Bradfield.

On arrival crews found about half of the cottage’s roof, which measures roughly five metres by ten metres, was ablaze.

An aerial ladder platform was called in to allow firefighters to spray water onto the fire from a height.

Due to the remote location of the incident a water bowser was also called to help provide a consistent water supply.

By 9.40pm, the incident had been divided into sectors to allow crews to surround the fire.

Crews were working to remove parts of the thatched material to prevent the fire spreading further.

At 10.30pm, firefighters were continuing to remove the thatched material from the roof of the property to make it easier to extinguish.

Incident commander Mark Earwicker said: “Firefighters have worked incredibly hard to get this fire surrounded and under control.”

The fire was put out by 7.30am on Saturday, with crews standing by to monitor any remaining hotspots throughout the rest of the weekend.

Following an investigation, crews believe the fire was caused accidentally The cottage has been destroyed, but fortunately the couple and their dog who lived there managed to escape and were taken in by neighbours.

Kreon Wynn, Bradfield Parish Council’s chairman, decided to launch a fundraising page to help the couple.

She said: “Regardless of anyone’s position with their house insurance, We agreed some immediate assistance would be needed. “A GoFundMe account was set up and the response from the community was astonishing.”

More than £3,000 was raised within hours of the account launching.

She added: “The last year has been difficult for most of us but losing your home on top of everything is indescribable.

“As chair of the parish council, I’m so proud of everyone that has contributed, not only from Bradfield but also further afield.

“This shows that community spirit is alive and well, supporting those in greatest need.”

“We are all just relieved that everyone is safe.

“Our thanks also go out to the fire service.”

To donate to the appeal go to https://bit.ly/3r4GO5p.