FIREFIGHTERS were called to a large tyre fire at a travellers’ site in Essex.

The blaze, which also involved cylinders, broke out shortly after 11am today at Chapel Lane, Boxted.

Initially two fire engines were sent but then a third was added because of the number of calls the service received.

The officer in charge then asked for a fourth appliance because cylinders were involved in the fire. He then requested a fifth fire engine because of water shortage at the site.

The fire measured 50 metres by 60 metres and involved cylinders and tyres.

Firefighters used jets to cover surrounding risks - a house and two stables blocks.

Crews from Colchester, Manningtree, Wivenhoe and Weeley were in attendance until 4.30pm.

They were using two hose reel jets and one ground monitor.