POLICE are continuing to investigate the cause of a fire that destroyed a building in Orsett in the early hours of Friday morning (27 June).

Firefighters were alerted to the blaze at Fieldhouse Farm in Baker Street shortly before 2.45am.

No one has been reported injured in the incident. 

Thurrock Police's Inspector Daniel Selby said: "We are working with Essex Fire and Rescue colleagues to look into the cause of the blaze. Thankfully, no one was injured in what can only be described as a substantial fire that destroyed a building.

"Our initial enquiries lead us to believe this was started deliberately and at this stage, we are treating this as arson. I'd ask anyone who has information that could help our investigation is asked to contact us."

A spokesperson from Essex Police added: "If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us quoting incident 115 of 27 June.

"We need anyone who saw what happened or saw someone acting suspiciously in that area at that time to come forward. 

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website where you can use our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

"Visit https://www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on Twitter at @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."