A fire has broken out near to the former home of the author of Black Beauty.

Fire crews were called to Church Plain in Great Yarmouth at 11.50am today (March 7).

The fire reportedly started in the building next to the Anna Sewell house and crews checked to see if it spread.

A thermal camera was used to check for hot spots and the stop message was received at 12.54pm.

Appliances from Gorleston and Yarmouth attended and used hoses and jets to put out the fire.

A property in Church Plain once belonged to Anna Sewell, the author of 1877 novel Black Beauty.

The Grade II listed house is now the base for Norfolk horse charity Redwings.

A spokesman said: “We have been made aware of a fire in close proximity to Redwings' Anna Sewell House in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk.

"Fortunately, the historic property where the Black Beauty author was born and which Redwings is caretaking, is undamaged.

"We’re very relieved to hear that no one has been hurt and our thoughts are with those who have been affected. 

“We’re very grateful to the fire brigade for their speedy help.

“We expect to be open between 10am – 2pm for visitors as normal tomorrow and we will update our supporters if anything changes.”