Council members have reassured high-rise residents after a fire broke out in a high risk building.

The fire broke out on the seventh floor of a13-floor block of flats in Godman Road, Chadwell St Mary, yesterday evening shortly before 6pm.

There were no reported casualties in connection with the fire.

Officers from Thurrock Council's Housing and Emergency Planning teams attended the scene of the fire, working alongside Essex County Fire and Rescue Service officers and nearby residents. The were also joined by the council's deputy leader, Councillor Shane Hebb, and Housing portfolio holder Councillor Barry Johnson.

Councillor Hebb said: "We have been at the scene tonight, and we were all so very relieved to be informed there were no casualties. Clearly home fires can not only be deadly they can lead to cherished memories being lost.

"To those affected tonight, Thurrock Council will be helping you in the coming hours, days and weeks ahead in every way we can.

"The fire service, Thurrock Housing teams, the paramedics and police have handled the matter in an exceptional way and the fact that people were re-entering their homes by 8:15pm is a testament to their amazing work under exceptional pressure."

The fire was put out by 7pm, with all residents not immediately affected by the blaze advised to remain inside their flats.

Councillor Johnson said: "Thurrock Council are working with residents to make sure that everyone is properly taken care of and offering advice and reassurance to those that need it.

"Seeing the fire service and council officers help walk people back to their homes, letting them know that they were safe, was very reassuring in itself. Neighbours were offering each other help other too - everyone down there really pulled together to help each other. We will continue to help affected residents."

The cause of the fire is not yet known, and an investigation will be carried out to determine its origin.