Fire crews are responding to a blaze at an outbuilding in Colchester which is ‘100% alight’.

East Anglian Daily Times: Police are investigating nine fires in the Sheepen Road area, one of which happened on Saturday June 6. Picture: MAISON THOMAS SMITHPolice are investigating nine fires in the Sheepen Road area, one of which happened on Saturday June 6. Picture: MAISON THOMAS SMITH (Image: Archant)

Two pumps are responding to the fire in Sheepen Road in the Essex town.

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The fire service were called shortly before 8.30pm to reports that an outbuilding was on fire and locals have since reported seeing smoke billowing into the sky.

On arrival the crews discovered the building was “100% alight” and saw that the blaze had spread to neighbouring fencing and bushes.

Firefighters remain on scene.

There have been reports that the fire was at the Colchester Institute but they have not been confirmed.

An Essex County Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson, said: “Firefighters were called to Sheepen Road, Colchester at 8:28pm.

“On arrival, two crews from Colchester confirmed that one outbuilding, measuring approximately 15m x 15m, was 100% alight and the fire had spread to nearby fences and bushes.

“Crews are currently working to extinguish the fire.”