A serious fire has damaged three homes in the centre of Torrevieja, prompting a large emergency response on Friday evening.

Fire crews were alerted at 8.10pm to a blaze in a residential building at the junction of Calle Ramón Gallud and Calle María Parodi. The property consists of a ground floor, mezzanine, six upper floors and a penthouse. Most of the building was evacuated, while residents on the top floors were confined to their homes for safety.

The fire is believed to have started on the third floor, reportedly caused by a brazier. A man who was inside the flat at the time managed to leave the property unaided. The flames later spread to the second floor, with large flames and thick smoke visible from the balconies. Neighbours in nearby flats called for help, and at first it was unclear whether anyone remained inside, but no injuries were reported.

Ten firefighters from the Torrevieja and Almoradí stations took part in the operation, supported by an officer, a sub-officer, a sergeant and two corporals. Crews used a turntable ladder to tackle the blaze and remained at the scene until 10pm.