Essex fire crews battle 15 hectare wildfire

Firefighters have successfully extinguished a large wildfire that tore through 15 hectares of grassland in the Barling Magna and Little Wakering area.

Essex Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene earlier today (Wednesday 16 July), deploying multiple crews as thick smoke blanketed the area.

Residents and motorists were urged to avoid the area while emergency services tackled the blaze.

At the height of the incident, fire crews from Leigh, Shoeburyness, Southend (two crews), Rayleigh Weir, Rochford, a water bowser from Corringham, and an off-road vehicle from Chelmsford were all in attendance.

Thanks to their swift response and coordinated effort, the fire was brought under control and extinguished.

No injuries have been reported.

The cause of the blaze is currently unknown.

Authorities have reminded the public to take extra care during dry weather conditions, as grass and vegetation fires can spread rapidly.

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