Epping Forest MP Dame Eleanor Laing has shared her condolences after a man was found dead in the flat on fire earlier today.

Essex Police confirmed that a body of a man was found in Woodland Grove, Epping, after a fire broke out earlier today (June 21) at around 6.30am.

The fire started at the ground floor of the building and spread to the roof, which also affected an adjacent block of flats.

Epping Forest Guardian:

Residents were evacuated when the fire broke out (Photo: Adrian Wallis)

The fire was extinguished by 9.30am, but there was “extensive damage” left at the building.

Epping Forest MP Dame Eleanor Laing said she was “shocked” to hear about the fire and the death of a man.

She said: "I was shocked to hear about this morning's fire and my thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who lost his life. This is a tragic time for everyone involved.

"I would like to express my thanks to the fire crews whose actions in stopping the fire from spreading prevented an even worse situation."

Now Epping Town Council and Epping Forest Council have set up a rest centre at the Jack Silley Pavilion at Stonards Hill, for the evacuated residents affected by the fire.

Epping Forest Guardian:

Police were at the scene (Photo: Adrian Wallis)

The Epping Forest MP was thankful for the councils quick action, as she said: "I am delighted that Epping Town Council and Epping Forest District Council were able to come together so soon after residents were evacuated to provide a rest centre and to work with the occupants of the other flats to help find alternative accommodation for those who have been unable to return home."

Councillor Chris Whitbread, leader of the Epping Forest District Council, explained that parts of the block are “clearly uninhabitable” as there was “extensive damage” due to the fire.

After an investigation, it was found that the fire was accidental.

Fire Investigator Mark Earwicker said: “Earlier reports suggested this fire started on the ground floor of the block of flats, however, I can confirm it started in a top floor flat before spreading to the roof and adjoining building.

“Following our fire investigation we now know that the fire started in the open plan kitchen lounge area. We have recorded the cause as accidental but because of the extent of fire damage in the flat it’s difficult to determine exactly how the fire started.

“We believe this was a tragic accident where a man sadly lost his life, and, over the coming days and weeks, we will be working hard to spread our safety messages and offer reassurance and advice to residents.

“As always, our message to every single person in the county is to make sure they have a working smoke alarm on every level of their home. It will alert you to the first sign of fire and give you more time to get out, stay out and call 999.”