Fire fighters were called to a tackle a house fire after lightning struck, causing a fire in the loft space involving two properties.

Initially two appliances were sent to the scene, in Brimsdown Avenue, Basildon, but on arrival, the incident commander requested an additional crew and an aerial ladder platform.

Fire fighters wearing breathing apparatus used one hose reel to tackle the fire and two covering jets to protect surrounding risks.

Crews reported that the fire was out by 8.30pm.

A high pressure fan was then used to clear the properties of smoke. The incident was dealt with by 8.53pm.

Everyone was accounted for and there were no reported casualties.