FIREFIGHTERS are currently (5pm, Sunday, 11 August) tackling a number of fires in a field to the rear of the flats on Godman Road, Chadwell St Mary.

A statement from Essex Fire and Rescue Service issued at 5.45pm says: "Six crews there at the moment, called at 4.35pm to a field fire affecting bushes and crop. 

"The fire is affecting approximately 150 metres of crop and bushes.

"The fire is producing lots of smoke so if you live in the area, please keep your windows and doors closed."

A large area of crop was lost.

It has been reported locally that the blaze was started by children who were seen climbing over a fence into the field.

A resident told Nub News: "A woman saw them climbing over then as the fire started they ran off screaming and shouting.

"It was small and started on the right but spread so quickly."