Rainham park fire destroys over 12 acres of land with residents warned of 'heavy smoke'

An aerial photo showing the land destroyed in the fire
-Credit: (Image: LFB)


A major fire in Rainham has destroyed over 12 acres of grass and shrubland at a scenic park filled with wildlife. The fire broke out yesterday evening (August 23), with 60 firefighters called to the blaze.

The fire occurred at Ingrebourne Hill Country Park in Rainham, East London, an area popular with walkers filled with 'lots of wildlife'. Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters tackled the blaze, finally bringing it under control by 8.05pm.

Local residents were advised by the brigade to keep their windows and door shuts due to the 'heavy smoke' coming from the burning grass and shrublands.

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Fire engines at the park where the fire broke out
Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters tackled the blaze -Credit:LFB

Drones were used by the brigade to provide crews with live images and thermal imagery of the fire. London Fire Brigade say the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

"Local residents were advised to keep their windows and doors closed due to the heavy smoke that was created. Firefighters made steady progress in fighting the blaze," said Station Commander Brien O'Keeffe.

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