A faulty tumble dryer is believed to have caused a fire in a flat above a shop in Walthamstow.

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to the blaze in High Street at about 6.30pm on Sunday, December 20.

A second-floor balcony was destroyed by the fire and part of a flat was also damaged.

Around 10 people left the building before the arrival of the brigade; there were no reports of any injuries.

London Fire Brigade investigators believe the fire was caused by a fault in a tumble dryer.

Station commander John Carpenter, who was at the scene, said: “Thanks to the quick actions of firefighters, the fire was prevented from spreading to neighbouring flats.

“Nearly one fire a day in London involves white goods and it’s vital that if any of your appliances start making a strange noise not to ignore it.

“If you think there might be a problem, always unplug it and contact the manufacturer or a qualified repair technician.”

The fire was reported under control at 7.24pm after fire crews from Walthamstow, Leyton and Tottenham fire stations attended the scene.

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