AN HISTORIC landmark was just ten minutes away from complete ruin after it went in flames.

An investigation has been launched into the fire at the Iron Age Roundhouse, based in Hadleigh Country Park, in Chapel Lane, Hadleigh.

Six fire crews from Rayleigh Weir, Leigh, Southend and Basildon were scrambled after the thatched roof set alight at about 7.30pm on Tuesday.

The fire was extinguished by 8.15pm, with the roof suffering severe damage. Concerned onlookers who dialled 999 told how they feared for the speed at which the flames spread in the building - which is - a reconstruction of a chieftain’s house from the late Iron Age, starting around 750 BC.

Nathan Jones was yards away from the fire as it broke out. He said: “I dread to think what the state of that building would have been in another ten minutes.”

Wendy Barker, whose house neighbours the site, told how the area has fallen victim to antisocial behaviour. It has led to fears the fire was started by vandals.

She said: “This is so sad, our garden backs onto this and we heard and saw the firefighters and all the smoke.

“Since the business units were built at the back, groups of youths gather in that car park to play on their bikes and play football, even though there’s a whole park they could hang out in.

“They were there hanging out and shouting and laughing that evening, so they may have seen something or someone.”

Bill Sharp, Tory councillor for St James ward, added: “It’s terribly sad as it is one of Castle Point’s most beautiful landmarks. I hope this wasn’t the work of vandals, we shall wait and see what the fire service says.”

A fire service spokesman said: “Six fire engines attended the incident, which is the normal number for a thatched roof fire.

“Firefighters worked to cut sections of the roof away to ensure no hotspots were left.

“An investigation will take place to establish the cause of the fire.”

A spokesman for Hadleigh Country Park said: “The fire service quickly extinguished the fire at the site. No-one was hurt or injured during the incident but the structure sustained some damage to the roof.”