A large fire in a Rayleigh field triggered a significant emergency response on Friday 18 July, with smoke blowing across key roads and local homes evacuated.
The blaze, near Amersham Court, was first reported at 3.38pm. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that approximately three hectares of standing crop were alight. The fire rapidly spread across the field, prompting fears it could reach nearby properties.
Fire crews were deployed from ten stations: Rayleigh Weir, Basildon, Hawkwell, Leigh, Southend, Billericay, Brentwood, Corringham and Grays. A police helicopter was also called in to assist by providing aerial updates on the spread of the fire.
Thick smoke affected visibility on several major roads including the A129, A1245 and Beeches Road, leading to delays and disruption across Rayleigh and the surrounding areas. Rawreth Lane was closed, and drivers were urged to take extra care due to drifting smoke.
Residents in nearby mobile homes were evacuated as a precaution. Rawreth Parish Council confirmed that Sweyne Park School Sports Hall and Rayleigh Leisure Centre were opened as temporary safe spaces for those displaced.
Group Manager Marc Diggory of Essex Fire and Rescue said:
“Crews have worked hard to extinguish the fire and stop it from spreading to nearby properties. We’re in a position now to downscale the incident. Crews will remain at the scene for the next few hours to dampen down hotspots. We’re looking to lift road closures soon.”
After at least two hours of fighting the flames, firefighters successfully extinguished the fire by 6pm. No injuries were reported, though the fire did reach and damage an outbuilding.
Eyewitnesses described the frightening pace of the fire. Dawn Humphreys said:
“I was in a car of four people right next to the field with this fire before the police arrived. It was very scary how fast the fire was spreading towards the road. Some people left their vehicles. I’m grateful the four of us got home safely and hope that nobody is hurt.”
Locals claim the blaze may have been started deliberately. James Pearce, who lives nearby, said:
“Some kids on the estate set a fire because they were bored. Hope they get caught and punished.”
Another resident, Jackie Perry, praised the emergency services:
“Well done to the fantastic emergency services. All the police, firemen, everyone that was there was absolutely fantastic. They put the fire out as quick as possible and so safely – they really are fantastic people.”
In a powerful moment witnessed by locals, one farmer resorted to ploughing his own crops to try and contain the flames. Jenna George said:
“Farmers already having a hard enough time without things like this happening. Watching him plough his own crops into the ground to try and stop the spread is just heartbreaking.”
Councillor Danielle Belton said: “This week has shown the amazing strength of our local emergency services, and I cannot thank them enough.
“In recant days we have experienced multiple serious incidents, and our emergency services continue to go over and above, in what are often the most awful and heartbreaking conditions. Thank you again, and I’m so pleased that you were able to prevent this situation worsening.
“My thoughts are with the farmer who has had a devastating loss this evening.”
Essex County Fire & Rescue Service issued a plea to the public to help prevent field fires during hot weather this summer:
- Take your litter home
- Discard of cigarettes carefully. Never throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows.
- Glass in direct sunlight can cause fires – ensure there is none lying around.
- Don’t have campfires or barbecues in the countryside. Only have them in safe designated areas.
- Avoid having bonfires in very dry weather.
- Talk to your children about the dangers of playing with fire and matches. Keep matches and lighters stored well away from children and teenagers.