A pub had to be evacuated after a fire broke out to the rear of the establishment.

Punters at the Four Ashes pub in Brewers End, Takeley, were led outside while firefighters tackled the blaze this afternoon (Tuesday).

One crew from Great Dunmow and another from Stansted were called just after 2pm.

Firefighters reported that external electrics situated under the patio were smouldering. The electricity was isolated and crews, wearing breathing apparatus, used one hose reel to tackle the fire.

The flames were extinguished just after 3pm.