Fire near Tilbury's Coalhouse Fort sees homes evacuated

Ten crews from across south Essex were called to land off Princess Margaret Road in East Tilbury at 10.54am to reports of a large field fire.

The fire damaged eight hectares of land but was put out, and stopped from spreading to Coalhouse Fort, thanks to the hard work and efforts of the team at 2.43pm.

Group Manager Marc Diggory said: "The fire started in the nature reserve next to the sea wall and was rapidly spreading.

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​A firefighter battles huge flames at the fire near Coalhouse Fort. Photo: Jennifer Barr

"Police worked with us to evacuate 20 homes, the visitor centre at Coalhouse Fort, St Catherine’s Church and the car park as a precaution.

"We had our resources in place quickly which meant we could contain it and stop it from spreading further.

“The firefighters worked so hard and were supported by the park rangers and local farmers who helped create fire breaks and tracks for us to access the fire.

"Police and ambulance were on scene with police co-ordinating the evacuation. It was a real team effort."

The cause of the fire is undetermined.

Crews will remain on site this evening to monitor hotspots.