Guests at Travelodge in Maldon were evacuated for the second time in less than a week, as a fire alarm sounded this morning (October 19). 

The alarm sounded at around 7.40am, reportedly forcing guests to pile into the neighbouring Greggs bakery at the Blackwater Retail Park. 

One guest told Nub News: "The manager did a great job in communicating what was going on and working to make sure all people were safe. There was also a wheelchair guest who needed help getting down the first floor. 

A spokesperson for Essex County Fire and Rescue Service confirmed they did attend the scene but did not take any action. 

Meanwhile, the manager ensured guests were able to return to their rooms as soon as possible. 

"The cause is still unknown, but it was the same room and same scenario," a guest added. 

"After Saturday's alarm, an engineer did come and said he had fixed it. So obviously that was wrong." 

It is believed the issue was caused by a faulty air conditioning unit, which is due to be repaired. 

The alarm was silenced at 8.10am, before firefighters left the scene at around 8.20am. 

Last Saturday, a guest reportedly woke up to find his room engulfed in smoke. The fire alarm was activated at 5.45am and the hotel was evacuated. 

At the time, an Essex County Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "After searching the building, firefighters recorded the incident as a false alarm." 

A spokesperson for Travelodge has been approached for a statement regarding both incidents. 

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