Firefighters tackle multiple grassland fires

A large area of grassland in east London has been destroyed by fire as temperatures reached 34C (93F).

London Fire Brigade (LFB) said 60 firefighters were called to Eastern Avenue West in Romford just after 17:00 BST. About 30 acres (12 hectares) of grassland were destroyed, including 20 acres on the westbound side and 10 acres on the eastbound side.

At the time, firefighters were dealing with another grassland fire nearby in Southern Way where about four acres (1.6 hectares) of grassland were damaged. Both fires were under control by around 19:00.

In Rainham, about 100 firefighters are dealing with another grass fire where 10 acres (four hectares) of grassland are alight near Acer Avenue.

Crews are using wildfire beaters – handheld tools used to help put out grass fires by smothering the flames.

Firefighters from New Cross, West Norwood, Romford, Dockhead, Orpington, Sidcup and surrounding stations are at the scene having been called at about 19:30.

The cause of all fires is not yet known.

Station Commander Ryan Kerby said firefighters had worked in "arduous conditions" to bring the blazes in Romford under control and protect nearby properties.

The Brigade said there was significant traffic disruption due to road closures and urged local residents to keep windows and doors closed because of heavy smoke.

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