Firefighters tackle blaze on scrap boat

Tillingham fire station watch manager John Maddocks praised crews for their efficient work

A blaze on a boat with scrap on it was caused accidentally, firefighters said.

Two crews were called to The Esplanade at Maylandsea, near Maldon, at about 20:00 BST on Wednesday.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said "luckily" the boat yard had an old fire appliance for washing down the jetties and ramps that could put out the flames.

People based nearby were evacuated from the scene and the blaze was extinguished by about 21:15.

"Firefighters did well to manage the risk to the public and themselves," said Tillingham fire station watch manager, John Maddocks.

He also thanked coastguard colleagues who arrived with mud rescue equipment, in case it was needed.