POLICE are appealing for information after a suspected arson fully lit up a timber industrial unit.

The fire in Hilliards Road, Great Bromley happened at around 10pm last night.

Crews from Colchester, Wivenhoe, Manningtree, Weeley, Clacton, Halstead and Brightlingsea were in attendance.

An Essex Fire spokesman said: “Firefighters were called to a fire in a single storey timber constructed industrial unit.

“The building measured approximately 30m by 8m.

“When crews arrived at the incident, they reported the whole building was 100 per cent alight.

“The water supply in the area was very poor so crews used a nearby reservoir and requested the attendance of a Water Bowser, a large tanker full of water, to provide additional water supply.

“The unit was used as storage and a workshop for domestic appliances.

“Firefighters used a number of hoses to tackle the fire and stop it spreading to nearby units and a bungalow.

“Firefighters also removed a number of cylinders which were close to the building.

“The fire was extinguished by 12am.

“Fire crews then spent two hours dampening down to ensure there were no remaining hotspots and the whole scene was cool and safe.

“The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Essex police were called to the incident at 10.10pm with reports of the fire.

A police spokesman said: “No-one was hurt but damage was caused to the building and contents.

“The fire is being treated as arson and enquiries are ongoing.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Clacton CID on 101 quoting incident 1367 of April 20.

Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.