FIREFIGHTERS from across Essex tackled a large blaze in a converted chapel last night.The fire at the building in West Road, Prittlewell, which is now used as a business centre, began at about 8.40pm.

FIREFIGHTERS from across Essex tackled a large blaze in a converted chapel last night.

The fire at the building in West Road, Prittlewell, which is now used as a business centre, began at about 8.40pm yesterday.

The first floor was well alight and 50 per cent of the roof was engulfed in flames.

Eight fire crews from the surrounding area tackled the blaze for more than three hours and the incident was finally cleared by 11.45pm.

An investigation will be carried out to establish the cause of the fire.