Workmen shut down fire service HQ

Essex Fire Service's headquarters was closed after workmen accidentally burst a water pipe.

The fire service said emergency calls would not have been affected because they were dealt by operators in Hutton and not the Kelvedon Park site.

Contractors damaged the pipe while working on the A12 on Friday, the fire service said. A spokesman added it was due to be repaired overnight on Friday.

The 100 staff at Kelvedon Park were also working from Hutton.

Adam Eckley, director of assets, resources and administration, said: "This incident was unavoidable.

"This incident gives Essex County Fire and Rescue Service an excellent opportunity to test its business continuity arrangements, which are now being put in place."