Crews battle six field fires in 52 hours

Essex firefighters tackled six field fires in 52 hours as soaring temperatures led to flames spreading rapidly.

The first blaze broke out in Saffron Walden on Monday morning and the last happened in Fordham Heath, near Colchester, at 14:56 BST on Wednesday.

One major incident affecting 50 acres (20ha) of heathland required eight crews.

Ollie Everott, rural engagement officer at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, said flames spread "out of control quickly" in dryer conditions.

Temperatures have been in excess of 30C (86F) in Essex during what is the third heatwave of the summer to hit the county.

People have been urged not to light bonfires in rural areas or using barbecues in the countryside.

The field fires attended by the service since Monday happened in Saffron Walden, Fryerning and Weeley both near Basildon, Epping, Woodham Walter near Maldon and Fordham Heath near Colchester.

Some of the blazes affected farm machinery and led to crops being destroyed, while huge plumes of smoke meant roads were closed.

Everott said: "Early reporting and good preparation can make a significant difference in preventing small fires from becoming large-scale incidents, helping us protect Essex's farms, crops and rural communities."

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