Fatal chalet bungalow fire

Firefighters were called to a fire in Priory Close, St Osyth at 7:30am. 

On arrival, crews reported a chalet bungalow was heavily smoke logged. 

Firefighters extinguished the fire by 8am. 

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

Following a fire investigation, the cause of the fire has been recorded as accidental and caused by a portable heater.

Station Manager Nick Singleton said: “We’re sad to report a man has died and our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones. 

“We believe this fire was caused by a portable heater that caught nearby furniture and clothing alight.

“If you’re using portable heaters at home to keep warm, please place them well away from anything they could catch alight like clothing, curtains and furniture. 

“Make sure they’re in good working order before you use them and there’s no signs of damage to the wires and plugs, if in any doubt, do not use them.”