'Unprecedented wildfires' in Essex leads to busy summer for crews

An "unprecedented number of wildfires" led to one of Essex County Fire and Rescue Service's busiest ever summers, it has said.

Crews responded to more than 4,200 incidents across July and August, compared to 3,821 during the same months in 2025.

Large-scale emergencies included an explosion in Rettendon , which injured 20 firefighters, and flames twice breaking out at Middlewick Ranges in Colchester .

Area manager Dave Bond said thousands of people had sent crews messages of support and thanks for their work.

"When residents take the time to see how they can help during incidents or to share their thanks afterwards, it provides a real boost to morale," Bond said.

The summer of 2026 was the UK's hottest on record , according to provisional data from the Met Office.

The dry conditions led to fires breaking out in fields and spreading quickly.

In the week to 30 July, the fire service received 2,029 emergency calls and dispatched crews to 570 incidents.

They also supported colleagues in Suffolk when flames engulfed an area the size of 210 football pitches at Dunwich Heath .

"Throughout this hot and very dry summer, we've received thousands of messages from residents asking how they can help, thanking our crews, and offering words of support and encouragement," Bond said.

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