Residents forced out of their homes by a fire in Harborough will have to stay in a nearby hotel as repair work is carried out

Residents forced out of their homes after fire ripped through flats in Market Harborough will have to stay in a nearby hotel as repair work is carried out.

Building and structural experts are now assessing the extensive damage sparked by the fierce blaze at Kings Court on Kings Road in the town centre on Saturday night.

Housing Association EMH Homes said residents are being looked after in a hotel for the time being.

Two women rescued by firefighters had to be treated at hospital after breathing in thick smoke after the fire was triggered by an electrical fault.

David Shaw, head of responsive operations at EMH homes, said: “Our main priority is the safety of our residents - and we are thankful that no one was more seriously harmed in this incident.

“Together with Advance, who manage the building on behalf of emh homes, we are doing all we can to now support those affected by the fire.”

He added: “All the residents have been temporarily rehoused in a hotel until the full extent of the damage can be assessed and the building repaired.

“We will be keeping Advance informed of progress and letting them know when the residents will be able to safely move back into their homes.

“We wish the residents affected by smoke inhalation a speedy recovery.”