Braintree fire sees five crews tackle flames overnight

Firefighters were called to a barn on fire in Rayne Road, Braintree at about 9.30pm last night, Friday, March 3.

Crews from Braintree, Coggeshall, Halstead, Great Dunmow and Saffron Walden were called to tackle the fire.

Firefighters are still working to tackle the flames (Image: Essex Fire)

The fire service said 999 control operators received dozens of calls reporting a lot of smoke in the  area. 

When crews arrived they reported that the barn measured approximately 10m x 20m and was located close to other buildings. The barn was full of hay.

This morning, the fire service has provided a further update saying they are still at the scene after working overnight but the fire is under control.

Crews will remain at the scene to ensure the fire burns out safely.

Two firefighters pictured at the scene on Rayne Road (Image: Essex Fire)

A spokesman said: "Firefighters remain at the scene of the fire ensuring that the fire is surrounded and burning safely under control.

"The fire is still issuing a lot of smoke which can be seen by local residents.

"If you live nearby please be assured, we are at the scene and have the fire under control."

Firefighters continued to work at the site for more than 24 hours, making sure it remained safe.

Crews finally left the scene in the care of the owners at 11am on Sunday, March 5.

The fire service said the cause of the fire is unknown.