RESIDENTS in the Bulphan area have expressed concern about a large fire that appeared to be fueled by the burning of waste material on an industrial site near their homes.

The large blaze at the Burrows Farm site of Simms Milling on the A128 started on New Year's Day and was visible for some distance from the site. Smoke and smells from the fire affected local residents who called the fire service a number of times, resulting in two visits to the scene by a fire crews.

A statement from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service says: "We were called initially at 6.03pm on Saturday, 1 January to Brentwood Road, Orsett.

"Crews from Grays and Orsett attended and found a bonfire burning under control.

"We continued to receive calls so the crew from Orsett returned to the site to make sure the bonfire was still under control."

Nub News has been unable to obtain a response from Simms about the fire but we will continue to try. Thurrock Council, the Environment Agency and ward councillors have also been asked for comment.