Hitchin: Firefighters put out blaze at Bearton Road flat

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service was called at 5.40pm following reports of a fire inside a flat in Bearton Road. 

Five fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were sent to the scene, where crews found a first floor flat well alight.

Firefighters used hoses and controlled ventilation to tackle the fire, which was extinguished by 6.30pm.

Nobody was hurt during the incident, and an investigation into the cause of the fire is taking place.

Assistant chief fire officer, Mark Barber, praised firefighters and control staff for their "fast and dedicated work", which helped "prevent a more serious incident".

"Thanks to the fast and dedicated work of our control room staff and firefighters last night we were able to contain and extinguish a fire at a flat in Hitchin," he said. 

"Although neighbouring flats were evacuated to ensure everyone was safe while we tackled the fire, I am pleased that no one was hurt.

"Crews in breathing apparatus inside the building worked together with colleagues on our aerial ladder platform outside the building to contain the blaze, and their prompt work prevented a more serious incident, and ensured that everything was swiftly brought under control."