A BLOCK of flats in Northwich was evacuated today (Monday) after a fire broke out in one of the properties.

Three fire engines were sent to Sandbach Drive shortly before 1pm after a blaze in a flat on the first floor of the building.

The entire block of flats was evacuated as a precaution – with one person being treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said crews used hose reel jets to tackle the blaze and had removed fire damaged items from the property.

A spokesman said: “A first floor flat was involved in a fire.

“The block of flats was evacuated as a precaution as firefighters in breathing apparatus used hose reel jets to tackle the blaze.

“A high-pressure fan was used to clear smoke from the property as the crews removed fire damaged items and cut away plaster board to check there was no fire spread.

“One person suffering from smoke inhalation was treated by ambulance staff.

“An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.”