A woman has died after a fire at residential units for adults with learning disabilities.

More than 70 firefighters were called to Connington Crescent, Chingford, just before 2.15am on Friday.

London Fire Brigade said 12 people left the three-storey block before firefighters arrived.

Pictures from the scene show flames pouring out of the roof of the building, which houses Connington Court and Connington House – which are both run by Sequence Care and provide services to support adults with autism and other complex needs or behaviours, according to Care Quality Commission documents.

Station manager Keith Wilson said: “Firefighters have been working hard to contain the spread of the fire which has destroyed the roof.

Damage to the roof and window at the care home in Chingford following the fire (Victoria Jones/PA)
Damage to the roof and window at the care home in Chingford following the fire (Victoria Jones/PA)

“Crews expect to be here into the day, tackling hot spots.”