FIREFIGHTERS were called to action last night after chimney caught fire in Chappel.

Fire crews were called to Vernons Road at around 10.40pm on January 14 after residents heard their smoke alarms going off.

A team from Colchester arrived and reports seeing flames and embers coming out the top of the chimney.

Due to difficult access to the roof and chimney, firefighters were forced to tackle the fire from the ground.

Firefighters used chimney rods and a stirrup pump to unblock he flue.

As a result, the fire was put out by 11.22pm with the chimney flue remaining undamaged.

Following the fire, Essex County Fire and Rescue are stressing the importance of chimney cleaning.

A spokesman said: "Most chimney fires are preventable. Regular inspection and cleaning of chimney flues will help prevent fires within chimneys.

"Keep your family and home safe by following our chimney safety advice."