A LARGE field went up in flames after catching light before firefighters rushed to the scene and quickly contained the blaze.

On-call crews from Braintree and Halstead were called to Convent Lane, in Braintree, at about 3.50pm today following reports of an inferno.

Upon arrival they established a significantly-sized plot of land measuring 100 metres by 100 metres was on fire.

After taking decisive action, the firefighters extinguished the blaze shortly before 4.20pm using hose reel jets and beaters.

A spokesman for the Essex Fire Service said: "We were called to Convent Lane at 3.51pm after reports of a field fire.

“On arrival, firefighters confirmed there was a fire in a field. Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire by 4.18pm.

"The cause has been recorded as accidental."

Braintree and Witham Times:

The latest inferno to hit north Essex comes after firefighters issued safety advice and warnings to residents in relation to how the ongoing heatwave can result in fires.

In a statement, a spokesman added: “We're urging Essex to be wildfire aware, especially during the heatwave.

“If you are having a barbecue, set it up safely, well away from sheds, trees and fences and stay with it until it is fully cooled.

“Please don't use disposable barbecues on the ground, it is just too dry at the moment and they can quickly turn into wildfires - pack a picnic instead.”