THE efforts of firefighters in Grays stopped a field fire spreading to a nearby row of terraced houses this morning.

The incident happened on land close to Charlotte Place, West Thurrock, and the alarm was raised just before 10am.

Two crews tackled the incident and reported on arrival that the fire was spreading quickly, having reached shrubbery and the back fences of the homes.

Dave Hogan, Watch Manager at Grays Fire Station, said: "This was a fire like so many we've been seeing recently, with the dry conditions meaning even the smallest grass or wildfire can spread and become very dangerous.

"In the end, while the fences and some decking were damaged, our firefighters have done a brilliant job to stop it damaging the nearby properties. I have no doubt that this fire would easily have reached the homes without their quick actions and hard work to get it under control.

"I'd like to thank our crews, as well as the members of public who reported this incident to our Control teams - the earlier we know about a fire, the quicker we can put it out before it becomes even more challenging."