A fire caused by an electrical fault damaged St. Mary's Church Hall in Bocking, Essex, on Friday, with no injuries and activities suspended.

A fire erupted in the ceiling of St. Mary's Church Hall in Bocking, Essex, on Friday morning at around 8:36 a.m., believed to be caused by an electrical fault, according to Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. Emergency crews quickly extinguished the blaze, with no injuries reported as the hall was unoccupied. Father Rod Reid called the damage "devastating" and said the church is awaiting insurance assessments. All hall activities are suspended, with no reopening date set, though updates are expected soon. Volunteers are assisting with cleanup and communication.