FIREFIGHTERS tackled an overnight blaze in a Thurrock residential area which destroyed a van.

Residents in Bradleigh Avenue in Grays were disturbed by two loud explosions just after 1am today (Tuesday, 1 August), followed by several smaller smaller ones.

Within minutes three fire appliances were on the scene.

An Essex County Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "Firefighters were called to a vehicle fire in Bradleigh Avenue at 1am. On arrival, crews reported that a van was 100% alight with smoke affecting a nearby building.

"Crews worked to extinguish the fire by 1:34am."