An arson investigation has been launched after firefighters found a blaze at a former timber merchant could have been started deliberately.

A total of 35 firefighters from across London and Essex tackled the blaze at the former C & R Timber Merchants in Five Oaks Lane, Chigwell, from 11.20pm on September 28

A single storey office building at the site, which was closed for business last year, was completely destroyed by the blaze. 

Evidence gathered during an initial investigation by London Fire Brigade has now been passed to the Metropolitan Police.

A spokesman for London Fire Brigade said: "The investigation is still ongoing and has been passed on due to belief that the incident has elements for the police.

"We have not ruled out that the incident may have been deliberate."