TWO families were made homeless after a vehicle crashed into a building in South Ockendon.

The incident happened on Saturday evening on Danbury Crescent, causing severe damage to the building and leaving a ground floor and first floor flat in a condition too dangerous for the occupants to remain, though the top flat residents were able to return on Sunday evening after measures were taken.

The incident sparked a big response from emergency services. Police, firefighters including the Urban Search and Rescue team, ambulance staff and medics were deployed but there were no serious injuries.

Officers and councillors from Thurrock Council also attended.

The property was boarded up but was not safe to live in.

An Essex County Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "Firefighters were called to Danbury Crescent, South Ockendon at 5.49pm on Saturday. 

"On arrival, crews reported that a vehicle had collided with a house. 

"Firefighters worked to make the building safe by 7.35pm."