2300 hrs

ESSEX Firefighters were called to a fire involving a large pile of tyres in Blackshots Lane, Grays this evening (Monday).

On arrival, crews reported that two stacks were alight, amounting to up to 100 tyres. Smoke from the fire could be seen from a considerable distance away.

Crews worked hard to extinguish the fire efficiently despite difficulties establishing a water supply and were able to do so by 6.36pm.

Firefighters then remained at the scene for around 30 minutes to dampen down the area and ensure there was no risk of reignition.

The cause of the fire has been recorded as deliberate.

1830 hrs

View from the streets of Blackshots/Stifford Clays.

Some little oik seems to have set fire to something (probably a car) in the fields off Long Lane @yourthurrock

Why would you??? It’s not exactly cold today!! pic.twitter.com/CRhdT6LqaR

— Shrimptank (@Shrimptank2011) May 7, 2018

1825 hrs

Fire service is in attendance. It appears to be a large quantity of tyres.

Large fire near Blackshots Lane in Grays Thurrock.

Please stay safe and avoid the smoke.@ECFRS on scene & dealing.

I know it's exciting to see but breathing this smoke in maybe dangerous to your health. @EastEnglandAmb pic.twitter.com/JPLnC02HBZ

— Ambulance Mike FRSPH (@ambulancemike) May 7, 2018

1750 hrs

THERE are reports of a large fire in the Blackshots area of Grays.

A reader has described it as in the vicnity of the nature reserve at the back of Blackshots Lane (north of the Thurrock Rugby Club).

More follows.

Large fire near Blackshots Lane in Grays Thurrock.

Please stay safe and avoid the smoke.@ECFRS on scene & dealing.

I know it's exciting to see but breathing this smoke in maybe dangerous to your health. @EastEnglandAmb pic.twitter.com/JPLnC02HBZ

— Ambulance Mike FRSPH (@ambulancemike) May 7, 2018