Huge fire breaks out at block of flats in east London 

Scaffolding surrounding the buildings is alight, with the ground floor, sixth floor and roof also catching on fire (Picture: UKNIP)

A block of flats has set on fire in east London with more than 100 people evacuated from their homes,

More than 200 firefighters and 40 engines from the London Fire Brigade were called to a fire to the blaze on Freshwater Road, Dagenham just before 3am.

Scaffolding surrounding the buildings is alight, with the ground floor, sixth floor and roof also catching on fire.

Station Commander Alan Bendell, who is on scene, said: ‘The fire is producing heavy smoke and we’re advising local residents to keep windows and doors closed. 

‘Two of the Brigade’s 32-metre turntable ladders are being used at the scene as aerial water towers to assist with tackling the fire from height. 

‘Freshwater Road is closed to traffic, so please avoid the area where possible.’

The cause of the fire remains unknown (Picture: UKNIP)

Got a story? Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. Or you can submit your videos and pictures here.

For more stories like this, check our news page.

Follow Metro.co.uk on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news updates. You can now also get Metro.co.uk articles sent straight to your device. Sign up for our daily push alerts here.