MALDON firefighters - including the local station's Environmental Protection Unit - were called to a crane fire on the A12 this afternoon (Monday, 26 July).

The incident happened at Boreham on the southbound carriageway at 1.37pm, with crews arriving at the scene reporting that a mobile crane - approximately 35 tonnes - had an engine fire. They worked to extinguish the blaze by 2.23pm.

However, crews remained at the scene to clear a large amount of fluid that had leaked from the crane.

Station Manger Dan Kirk said: "Crews worked in hot conditions to get this fire extinguished quickly and when they arrived, were presented with a large amount of what we believe is hydraulic fluid which presents an environmental risk. As well as protecting lives and property, we also work to protect the environment.

"We've been working to prevent this fluid entering the drains and a nearby fishing lake as well as the River Chelmer.

"Using our Environmental Protection Unit from Maldon, firefighters have been using specialist pumps to lift the fluid from the roadway and into an area where it can later be cleared by partners while making small dams to prevent the liquid from entering nearby water sources.

"Thank you to all the drivers who have been held up for your patience while we deal with this incident."