A WARNING has been issued after an out of control bonfire spread to fences.

Fire crews were called to Morrow Lane, Ardleigh, after a bonfire in a skip had spread to building materials.

The fire service has described the bonfire as out of control and said it had been left unattended.

A spokesman for the Essex Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Firefighters were called at 12.45pm on Monday.

“On arrival, crews reported a bonfire in a skip had burned out of control and had set alight to building materials including insulation panels and fences.

“Crews worked to contain the fire and extinguished it by 1.45pm.”

The spokesman added: “If you’re planning on lighting a bonfire, please read our safety advice first.

“Site the bonfire well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs and never leave the bonfire burning unattended.

“Build the stack so that it is stable and will not collapse outwards or to one side, and never use flammable liquids - paraffin or petrol - to light the fire.

“Don’t burn foam-filled furniture, aerosols, tins of paint and bottles.

“Keep everyone away from the fire and pour water on the embers before leaving.”