Firefighters are currently responding to significant fires in a town on the Essex border, with large numbers of crews and resources deployed to tackle the blazes.

The first incident broke out on Launders Lane, Rainham, where four fire engines and around 25 firefighters are battling a fire on a 50x50 metre stretch of wasteland.

Crews from Wennington, Dagenham, Hornchurch, and Greenwich fire stations were dispatched after the blaze was reported at 1.33pm.

Firefighters from London Fire Brigade are using a 32-metre turntable ladder as an observation tower to manage the fire from above.

Residents in the vicinity are being urged to keep their windows and doors closed due to smoke, and New Road has been closed from Lambs Lane North to Launders Lane.

Just hours later, at 3,10pm, a second blaze was reported near Stanhope Road, also in Rainham.

Eight fire engines and approximately 60 firefighters are now working to extinguish a number of areas of shrubland.

Firefighters are supported by a bulk water unit, piloted this summer, which carries 8,000 litres of water for areas where traditional water sources are insufficient.

London Fire Brigade is also trialling new wildfire response vehicles with off-road capabilities, allowing crews to fight outdoor fires more effectively.

A Wildfire Support Officer is on-site, providing key tactical advice, while extra hydration and sun protection have been provided to firefighters working in the hot conditions.

Residents near both incidents are advised to keep their windows and doors shut as smoke from the fires continues to spread.