Onlookers feared for the lives of some young children as a fire broke out at an industrial estate in Wickford.

The fire was reported at one of the units in the estate in Bruce Grove after residents saw a group of children entering the area.

A woman who was at the scene when the fire broke out said: "About six boys and girls aged between ten and 12 years old were seen going into the unit through the broken fence at about 5pm.

"At 6pm, smoke started to pour out of the door and a gentleman who worked in a unit opposite called the fire brigade.

"We were worried the kids might still be inside but no one was found.

"The fire brigade were there within five or ten minutes and the fire was put out quickly.

"We were worried the kids might still be inside but no one was found."

One fire crew attended the incident and tackled the blaze.

It is believed the fire had been extinguished within an hour of the crew's arrival.

The Echo has contacted Essex Fire and Rescue Service following the incident.