More than 120 firefighters are tackling a grass fire in Dagenham that temporarily forced some residents from their homes.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) said 25 fire engines and a wildfire response vehicle are at the blaze that covers around eight hectares (20 acres) of grass, shrubland and trees, as well as fences and garden furniture.
It said the fire behind was behind Clemence Road in Dagenham, which backs on to Beam Parklands, and nearby properties are being evacuated.
The brigade said on X: “We are making steady progress at a grass fire in Dagenham and residents have been able to return to their properties.”
Residents are being advised to keep their doors and windows closed due to the smoke.
The LFB said its wildfire response vehicle provides off-road capability enabling the transportation of additional equipment closer to fires on open ground.
Each vehicle carries around 475 litres of water, a backpack blower, ear defenders, beaters and misting lance technology, which allows firefighters to pump water and drive, enabling them to tackle grass fires more quickly and safely.
The brigade said it is also using wildfire beaters – a long handle with a flat piece of rubber at the end. They are used to beat the flames – to prevent the fire from spreading.
The LFB was first alerted to the fire at 18:30 BST and crews from Dagenham, Hornchurch, Wennington, Romford and other surrounding fire stations are at the scene.
The cause of the fire is not known at this stage.
