Crews from Chelmsford, Harlow, Dunmow, Newport, Wethersfield, Corringham, Epping and Loughton attended the blaze.
The fire service also sent an aerial ladder platform, a water bowser and an incident command unit, as well as a drone.
Mr Midwood said: “We are committing a large amount of resources, including at this moment around 20 firefighters wearing breathing apparatus, who are continuing the arduous job of extinguishing the fire and stripping back the roof.
“Crews have done a fantastic job of creating firebreaks and salvaging possessions.
“We are making steady progress but will be at the scene well into the evening.”