FIREFIGHTERS were called to reports of a fire in a Basildon restaurant by a passer-by who heard the smoke alarm sounding late on Boxing DFay evening (Tuesday, 26 December)

When firefighters arrived at the premises on Southernhay they found the restaurant full of smoke.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus gained access to the building (which was closed at the time of the fire) and found a light fitting had caught alight and caused the whole building to fill with smoke.

Firefighters also checked the neighbouring properties to make sure the smoke hadn't spread.