A FIRE at a derelict mid-terrace cottage has closed a road as 30 firefighters battle to put it out.

Around 30 firefighters are currently at the scene of the fire, and are also using an aerial ladder to pour water on the fire from above.


The first floor and loft area of the house were well alight, and smoke could be seen coming out of the two neighbouring property's roofs.

A spokesman for the fire service said: "This incident is on-going. The road has been closed by police so firefighters can deal with the incident safely."

Update: 

Crews are still tackling the fire. The gas and electricity board have attended the incident to cut off the supplies to the properties. Fire crews will remain on scene to dampen down hot spots.

An investigation into the cause of the fire will begin once the fire has been extinguished.

Update: 

Purfleet Road has now been reopened.

Update: 

All firefighters have now left the scene. An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway