A major fire has caused devastation at a historic Essex golf club, with plumes of smoke visible across the local area.
Firefighters Battle Blaze at Historic Club
Six fire crews were scrambled to tackle a significant fire at the West Essex Golf Club in Waltham Abbey. The incident, which began on the afternoon of Monday, 5th January 2026, saw flames rip through the site of the club, which was originally founded in 1900. Thick smoke from the blaze could be seen for miles around.
Location and Emergency Response
The golf club is situated just a few minutes' drive from the M25 motorway, a key transport route around London. The emergency services response was substantial, with multiple fire engines attending the scene to bring the situation under control. The cause of the fire is not yet known, and an investigation is expected to follow.
Community Impact and Heritage Loss
The West Essex Golf Club is a well-established part of the local community, having operated for over 125 years. This incident represents a serious blow to the club's members and the area's sporting heritage. There have been no immediate reports of injuries. The scale of the damage to the club's buildings and facilities will become clearer once the fire is fully extinguished.
Local authorities are advising people to avoid the area to allow the emergency services to work unimpeded. Further updates on the condition of the club and the fire investigation are anticipated in the coming hours.
