Homes evacuated after field fire spreads

A number of homes had to be evacuated while eight crews dealt with a field fire.

It broke out on the edge of Croxley Green, near Watford, at about 12:30 BST.

The blaze spread to neighbouring fields and woodland, and residents in Little Green Lane were asked to leave their homes as a precaution.

Greg Duke, the area commander for Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, said the flames "spread rapidly" and were heading towards homes, but crews "worked hard to protect these properties and were able to successfully contain the fire".

A water bowser, a nebula misting system and a drone were also deployed to the blaze, which is now under control.

Duke said: "This incident is a reminder of how quickly fire can spread in these hot, dry conditions, and I'd encourage everyone to take extra care and to call 999 quickly if they do see a fire in the countryside."

Watford Borough Council asked people to stay away from the neighbouring area of Dale Wood, as it was affecting The Dell and roads by York House School.

It advised residents to keep their windows and doors closed.

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