Huge plumes of smoke were seen for miles across north London as fire engines tackled a grass fire next to a busy rail track near Waltham Abbey, Essex, on Sunday. At least 50 people reported the blaze breaking out beside the tracks at around 2pm.
Passengers were taken off trains as services ground to a halt on the way to Stansted Airport. Major wildfires beside the line stopped trains running between Stansted and Liverpool Street.
Terrain support vehicle sent to scene
An LFB spokesman said: ‘One of the Brigade’s Terrain Support Vehicles has been sent to the scene to support firefighting efforts. ... ‘The vehicle provides off-road capability enabling the transportation of additional equipment closer to fires on open ground. ‘Each vehicle carries approximately 475 litres of water, a backpack blower, ear defenders, beaters and misting lance technology, which allows firefighters to pump water and drive, enabling them to tackle grass fires more quickly and safely.’
Stansted Express services disrupted
A Stansted Express spokesperson said: ‘Train services running through this station may be delayed or diverted via Seven Sisters. Disruption is expected until further notice. ‘Unfortunately, we have received reports of multiple fires close to the railway lines and as a result, and a safety precaution, the London Fire Brigade have instructed that all train movements in the area be stopped. ‘In reaction trains towards and from Liverpool Street will be diverted via Seven Sisters until further notice. ‘Network Rail and the emergency response team are on site working as quickly as possible to put out the fires and restore the train service to normal.’
