FIREFIGHTERS once again had to tackle a blaze adjacent to the World's End this evening (Tuesday, 22 September).,

It is the fifth incident in the vicinity since Sunday, all of which are believed to have been started deliberately. The seats of the small fires were in rubbish bins, a metal container and also a pile of pallets and timber.

Fire crews have been called out to deal with each incident, with two crews (from Gras and Orsett) attending this evening.

Previous fires were set in bins and containers on the riverside.

Local social media commentators have pointed a finger of blame a gang of 'feral youths' - previously linked to incidents including vandalising a defibrillator in the town, smashing windows, stealing from shops and throwing objects at buses.

There have been constant calls for more policing in the area. A short concentration of effort by police earlier this year was welcomed and hailed a success, but once officer numbers were reduced residents say anti-social behaviour returned to previous levels.

To date no serious damage to property has been caused, but local ward councillor Bailey Scott is concerned about what might escalate going forward and he told Thurrock Nub News of his anger and frustration.

Cllr Scott, a passionate advocate for the town where he grew up, said: "I'm deeply saddened and angered to hear that the area around the historic World's End Pub has been subject to repeated fire incidents for the fifth time in just two days.

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"This listed building is a huge part of Tilbury's history, and seeing our local heritage put at risk is heartbreaking.

"We've also fires nearby involving a litter bin and two IBC containers and other material. This behaviour is completely unacceptable.

"A huge thank you to our incredible fire service for their fast responses, commitment and dedication to keeping residents safe while protecting our historic buildings.

"Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and we are extremely grateful. If anyone has information about these incidents, or evidence of how the fires started, please contact Essex Police.

"Our town's heritage deserves to be protected, acts of vandalism have no place in our community."

This evening's alarm, was raised by passers-by and staff at the nearby Tilbury Fort, who also contacted the site owner Dermott McGuinness, who has also expressed his thanks to firefighters for their efforts.

Mr McGuinness a local businessman who also owns and operates the Fleet pub in Purfleet, closed the World's End a couple of months ago after a difficult trading summer and he is contemplating its future development.

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Earlier this evening an alarm, was raised about a fire in nearby Chadwell St Mary (pictured above), where a plume of smoke rose above the local skyline. The fire, in a skip, was quickly dealt with.