FIREFIGHTERS tackled a blaze the size of almost four football pitches last night.

At around 7.50pm, Tillingham, Burnham and Maldon fire crews were all called out to the blaze in Grange Road, Tillingham.

The fire, involving an area of six acres saw the entire field go up in flames, spreading very quickly.

A spokesman for Essex Fire and Rescue, said: "Fire crews worked hard to surround and extinguish the fire as quickly as possible.

"The fire was extinguished by 9.15pm."

The crews remained at the scene for another hour to ensure the area had been fully cooled.