RESIDENTS were evacuated from smoke-logged floors at a Thurrock high rise block of flats earlier this evening (Thursday, 18 February).

The drama played out at George Crooks House, on New Road, Grays. Seven teams of firefighters rush to the tower bock when the alarm was raised. The smoke turned out to be from some cooking left on a hob but it hadn't caught alight.

An Essex County Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "Firefighters were called to reports of a fire in a high rise building in New Road, Grays just after 8pm.

"Seven crews were sent to the scene as part of high rise procedures and confirmed the 10th floor of the building was smoke logged due to cooking on a hob. Due to the smoke that floor and those above were evacuated as a precaution. Crews left the scene at 8:51pm."

A statement from Thurrock Council adds: "All residents have since returned to their homes and there were no casualties or damage to properties.

"Residents of the affected property are being supported by the council."

Ward councillors Martin Kerin, Tony Fish and Jane Pothecary issued a joint statement this evening, saying: "We would like to place on the record our thanks to Essex County Fire & Rescue Service for their attendance at George Crooks House, in our ward of Grays Riverside.

"It is always worrying when you hear reports of fires. This is especially the case when you hear of them in high rises. We are very mindful of the six tower blocks we have in our patch.

"We were pleased and relieved to hear that, on this occasion, there were no casualties or damage to properties.

"Once again, thank you to our emergency services for keeping us safe and for being there when needed."