Firefighters have tacked a blaze in a historical sailing club building.
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service was called to the University Community Sailing Club in Waterside Marina, Brightlingsea, at about 11:33 BST.
Crews contained the fire and were working to fully extinguish it at 13:15 BST, remaining at the scene to damp down hotspots.
An investigation found the fire was accidental, a spokesperson for the service confirmed.
Quentin Sage, station manager from Brightlingsea Fire Station, said: "We know this has been a really difficult incident for the local community – as a Grade II listed building, it holds a lot of history and a special place in the town."
The fire at the sailing club affected both the first floor and roof space and had spread to the roof of a neighbouring residential property.
The Yachtsmans Arms pub, which is nextdoor to the building, said on social media due to the "tragic event" it would be closed until 15:00.
It said: "Our thoughts are with everyone involved at the UCSC and so grateful there were no casualties. We would also thank our local services for their quick response."
