A PROBE into the cause of a factory fire in Colchester is due to take place as firefighters remain on the scene.

Crews from Colchester, Weeley, Clacton, Brightlingsea and an aerial ladder platform from Chelmsford are currently working to extinguish a fire at the former Gamet Bearings Factory in  Hythe Station Road.

Other emergency services are also on the scene.

Read more >> Emergency services called to fire in derelict building in Colchester

Station Manager Ryan Ainger said: "When crews arrived they found a fire on the ground floor of a two storey warehouse.

"The fire was spreading into the first floor and roof space.

"Initially our control team received information that there may be people inside.

"Firefighters have now conducted a full search of the building and are extinguishing hot spots." 

The fire service has said an investigation into the cause will be carried out by officers when it is safe to do so.