Around one hectare of grass and shrubland has been damaged from a fire this afternoon.

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters rushed to reports of grass alight on Centre Road by the Wanstead Flats this afternoon (August 10) at around 12.19pm.

The fire spread across the land and onlookers at the scene recorded the fire from various angles.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Photo: Geoff Gramlick

A large section of the grass and shrubland within the area of the blaze was completely burnt

Fire crews from Leytonstone, Plaistow and Ilford fire stations were at the scene and the fire was under control by 4.24pm.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Moira Fraser-Pearce, who was the scene, tweeted: “Scary moment today – extensive fire started close to where me, another mum with small baby, were sitting on Wanstead Flats this lunchtime – we heard the crackling, grabbed babbies and prams and legged it!

“Big thanks to @LondonFire – fire now out. Be careful everyone! No barbecues!”

The London Fire Brigade has issued out a warning to the public about potential fires during the hot weather.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Photo: Geoff Gramlick

A spokesperson said: "London has had some incredibly hot days over the last week, which means the ground is extremely dry. Grassland and parks will burn quickly when exposed to even the smallest of sparks.

"If you see a grass fire, don't attempt to put it out yourself as grass fires can travel very quickly and change direction without warning. Call 999 and let us know where the fire is."

The fire brigade also shared a series of advise for people during the weather:

• Avoid having barbecues in parks, public spaces and balconies.

• Clear away bottles, glasses and any broken glass to avoid them magnifying the sun and starting a fire.

• Dispose of smoking materials such as cigarettes safely- don’t drop cigarettes on dry ground and don’t drop them out of car windows, as they may land on dry grass and lead to a fire.

• Disposable barbecues that have been discarded and abandoned can still end up causing a fire as they will continue to retain heat after use – they need to be put right out and cooled before being thrown away.

• Do not barbecue on balconies, the wind can carry smouldering ash onto nearby grassland.