A garage was engulfed and badly damaged in an inferno last night which also threatened a nearby pub.

M.D. Motors in Hoe Street, Walthamstow, was badly damaged by a massive fire which erupted at about 5pm on Sunday, February 2.

Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters were rushed to the car workshop, behind Ye Olde Rose and Crown pub, to battle the blaze.

The ground, first floor and roof of the car workshop and garages were alight. There were no reports of any injuries and the fire was reported under control at 8pm.

Station Commander Jon Holt, who was at the scene, said: "Crews worked hard to protect the surrounding shops and businesses and stop the fire spreading."

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Fire crews from Walthamstow, Leyton, Tottenham, Woodford and Homerton fire stations were at the scene.

Walthamstow MP of ten years, Stella Creasy, took to twitter to thank fire crews, after making her way to the scene to support affected business owners.

She said: “Am with both the owners of the pub and the garage who are obviously shocked and appreciate the messages of concern from local people.

“Thank you to @LondonFire for their response tonight to fire at garage behind rose and crown on Hoe street - your whole team has been extraordinary and Walthamstow greatly appreciates it.”

Ye Olde Rose and Crown management also tweeted their appreciation to the brigade for stopping the fire from reaching the pub.

They said: “We are back in and are very fortunate to have no damage just a heavy smell of smoke. We are saddened to say that Mic’s garage has not been so fortunate and all our love is with them. No one was hurt.

“The fire brigade have done an amazing job and managed to contain the fire from creating more damage and destruction. Thank you for the love and support and thank you to Stella for being there as always.”

The cause of the fire is under investigation.