Two in hospital after house fire in Forest Gate

Two people were taken to hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation after a house fire in East London in the early hours of this morning

Initial reports that four people who “may have been squatters” were missing were unfounded, the London Fire Brigade said.

Eight fire engines were called to the property on Romford Road in Forest Gate at 3.15am this morning. Around 60 firefighters tackled the blaze, which was under control by 7.27am.

Firefighters rescued one man from the roof of the building, while another managed to escape before crews arrived.

When crews arrived, the ground and first floors of the building, which was thought to have been disused, were 50 per cent alight. The roof was entirely ablaze.

Station manager Daniel Alie, who was at the scene, said: “The fire caused severe damage to the house and the roof was destroyed. Crews rescued a man from the rear of the house using a ladder.

“Both men have been taken to hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation. Our fire investigation unit is now working to find out what caused the blaze.”