HOUSE fire which broke out yesterday in Rayne was caused by an electrical item being left on charge.

Crews were called to reports of a fire in Brunwin Way, Rayne on Tuesday July 16 at 10.24am.

A neighbour spotted smoke coming out of a window and called 999.

Firefighters from Braintree, Chelmsford, Dunmow, Halstead, Hawkwell and Wethersfield attended. 

Station Manger Tim Rickard said: "When we arrived there was a significant fire in the semi-detached house, which had spread through the roof into the neighbouring property.

"Crews worked quickly and professionally to extinguish the fire and stop it from spreading further. 

"Unfortunately the first floor has been significantly fire damaged and both properties have been left uninhabitable."

The fire was extinguished by 12.38pm.

An investigation has found the fire was caused by an electrical fault.

Essex Fire and Rescue have issued safety advice following the house fire which can be found here - House fire caused by electrical item left on charge | Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (essex-fire.gov.uk)