A FAMILY of five were left homeless earlier today after fire ripped through a flat above a shop in High Street, Grays.

Firefighters were called to a fire in the home above Londis at just after 5.15am.

The shop was left badly damaged by the blaze too.

A family member, believed to be the dad, had to be treated for smoke inhalation and as he was suffering from breathing difficulties.

The five fire crews had dealt with the fire by 7.45am.

Station Officer Evan Jelliss from Grays fire station said: "When firefighters arrived at the incident smoke was pouring through the metal roller shutters at the front of the shop and fire crews had to use specialist cutting equipment to gain entry.  

"Once inside the property crews in breathing apparatus used two hose reels to extinguish the fire in the shop and flat.

"A family of five had been evacuated from the property by the police before the fire service had arrived.

"The family, two adults and three children, have been made homeless following the fire.

"Firefighters prevented the fire from spreading to the adjacent shops in the High Street."

The fire is believed to have started by an electrical fault in the shop and spread upstairs to the flat. 

The flat had no working smoking alarms.   

Divisional Officer Neil Fenwick said: “Smoke alarms are proven life savers. They give vital warning at the first sign of fire giving everyone time to get safely out before calling us in.

“There is no excuse for any home not having a smoke alarm. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service provide home fire safety visits completely free of charge. A technician will come to your home, carry out a full home fire safety inspection and fit smoke alarms where they are needed.”

To arrange a free home fire safety visit, call 0300 303 0088 or email webmaster@essex-fire.gov.uk