Firefighters from Colchester and three neighbouring stations worked together to extinguish a wildfire at Friday Woods in Colchester on 1 May 2026. The blaze, which broke out at approximately 6:31pm, quickly spread across two hectares of grassland at the site located on Bounstead Road.
Crews from Colchester, Clacton, Tiptree, and West Mersea attended the scene, using specialist wildfire training to surround and contain the fire. The area is managed by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation and is known for its high nature conservation interest. While the fire was brought under control quickly, the cause of the incident is not yet known and remains under investigation.
The Essex County Fire and Rescue Service notes that 85 to 90 percent of wildfires are caused by human activity, such as discarded cigarettes, bonfires, or campfires, rather than natural causes. Following this incident, the fire service is urging residents to remain vigilant during warm, dry weather conditions when vegetation is particularly prone to igniting.
Members of the public who have information regarding the fire or who wish to report suspicious behaviour can contact the FireStoppers anonymous reporting scheme. Information can be shared by calling 0800 169 5558 or by using their online reporting form.
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