FAMILIES were evacuated as firefighters tackled a huge blaze at an Essex hotel last night.
Firefighters were called to Epping Road at 9.05pm yesterday and shut off a section of the road as they tackled the flames at the Phoenix Hotel.
Ten crews, an aerial ladder platform, water bowser, drone, incident command unit and police were all in attendance.
Firefighters from across west and south Essex were sent to the scene including crews from Wickford, Corringham, and Grays.
The fire, affecting 25 per cent of the building, was extinguished by 1am and the number of crews at the scene have been significantly reduced.
Everyone who was in the hotel has been accounted for and taken to alternative accommodation.
Area Manager Dan Partridge said: "We are grateful that the building was evacuated so efficiently, and no-one suffered any injuries.
"I would like to praise crews for their hard work in getting the fire under control so quickly.
"I would also like to thank our crews and partner agencies for supporting the families and individuals affected; they have all been taken to alternative accommodation."
The Home Office operated hotel was being used as a temporary accommodation centre for people seeking asylum, Epping District Forest confirmed.
Councillor Chris Whitbread, leader of Epping Forest District Council said: "I want to express our gratitude to the men and women of the emergency services for their skill and professionalism.
"A hotel fire is a daunting scenario, but I am sure the firefighters of Essex Fire and Rescue, supported by the police and health services will have displayed the utmost skill, bravery and professionalism.
"Thankfully, we understand that everyone at the hotel has been accounted for."
Mr Whitbread urged residents not to speculate on the cause.
An investigation will be carried out this morning to establish the cause of the fire.
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