PHOTOS: Firefighters tackle field fire measuring 40,000 square metres

Firefighters were called to the scene of a large field fire in Ongar this afternoon.

Around four hectares - or 40,000 square metres - of standing corn were alight. Smoke could be seen from some distance away.

Firefighters worked hard to surround the fire and prevent it from spreading further.

Please avoid the area and - while we appreciate it's hot today - keep your windows and doors closed if you live or work nearby.

Update 3pm - Thanks to the incredible work of our crews, this fire is now under control.

Please continue to avoid the area while firefighters make sure the scene is fully cooled and hotspots in the area are eliminated.

Could you be an on-call firefighter?

Many of the crews who attended this incident are on-call firefighters, who live or work within 5 minutes of the station and are paid to protect their community. 

If you live or work within 5 minutes of an on-call fire station, you could be an on-call firefighter too. 

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