A second-floor flat in Colyton has been badly damaged by a fire that broke out yesterday afternoon (Monday, May 20).

Several members of the public reported smoke coming from a window of the building at about 2.30pm.

Firefighters from Colyton and Seaton went to the scene, and were then joined by a crew from Axminster.

There were concerns that there might be people in the building, but this was found not to be the case - all the occupants were accounted for. An elderly resident of another part of the building was found outside and was checked by ambulance crews, but found to be fit and well.

The fire was put out by crews using six breathing apparatus, two thermal imaging cameras, two hose reel jets, breaking in equipment and small tools. They then used a positive pressure ventilation fan to clear the smoke, and decontamination equipment.

The whole of the second floor flat was damaged by smoke, with some fire damage as well. The fire is thought to have started accidentally and is not being treated as suspicious.