PHOTOS: Bonfire causes field fire

Firefighters are advising the public not to have bonfires, campfires or disposable BBQs until we’ve seen some more rain across the county.

Crews were called to a field fire in East Tilbury Road, Linford today after a bonfire caught dry stubble alight.

Initially two crews were sent to the scene and reported that the fire was spreading quickly.

A further four crews were called to assist and crews acted quickly to surround the fire - which was affecting five acres of stubble.

Firefighters extinguished the fire by 2pm.

Group Manager Mark Eaglestone said: “Quick action from members of the public who called us and quick action from firefighters on scene who worked exceptionally hard prevented this fire from spreading.

“Please do not have fires in this dry weather, we’d advise against having any bonfires, campfires or disposable BBQs while the vegetation is still tinder dry.

“Hold off until we’ve had some more rain. While the temperature has dropped significantly, we still have lots of dry vegetation and it only takes an ember to start a wild fire.”

Could you be an on-call firefighter?

Corringham and Hawkwell's firefighters are on-call firefighters - they all live or work within 5 minutes of an on-call fire station and are paid to protect their community. 

Do you live or work within 5 minutes of an on-call fire station? You could be an on-call firefighter. 

Find out more about the role and how to apply at join.essex-fire.gov.uk/on-call