Huge fire erupts at historic golf club in Essex with clubhouse up in flames
- Did you see the fire at West Essex Golf Club? Email eleanor.mann@dailymail.co.uk
A massive fire broke out at a historic golf club in Essex this afternoon, engulfing the clubhouse in flames.
Firefighters rushed to battle a blaze at the 125-year-old West Essex Golf Club at Waltham Abbey earlier today; Six fire crews and approximately 60 firefighters were reported to be at the scene.
The fire started just before 3pm and crews have confirmed no injuries have been reported so far.
The Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said all personnel had been searched and were safe outside the building.
In an updated statement, police said: ‘Fire officials at the scene reported that firefighters were making good progress in tackling the large blaze.
‘Fire crews are working hard to prevent the fire from spreading to the back of the building.
‘An investigation will take place when it is safe to do so to find the cause of the fire.’
Fire crews have confirmed there were no injuries from the fire at West Essex Golf Club (pictured). Fire crews also intervened in the incident, which started around 15:00.
A photo shared from the scene by the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service shows the aftermath of the fire, which destroyed the clubhouse’s roof and left the building in ruins
Smoke could be seen for miles as around 60 firefighters battled the flames at the historic Essex golf club.
A spokesman for the County of Essex Fire and Rescue Service said earlier today: ‘Firefighters were called to a fire at a golf club in Waltham Abbey this afternoon (Monday, January 5).
‘When the first fire crews arrived they confirmed everyone had been found and no one was injured. They requested additional fire trucks for support.
‘The building, which measures approximately 25m x 15m, has two floors. The fire affects the entire building.
‘Approximately 60 firefighters are at the scene, working intensively to fight the fire.
‘Essex firefighters are supported by nearby fire crews from London Fire Brigade and Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.’
West Essex Golf Club is 125 years old and was founded in 1900 by legendary Scottish golfer James Braid.
Located just 25 miles northeast of central London, the course covers parts of Epping Forest and includes an 18-hole championship course, practice facilities, pro shop and clubhouse.
Today, the fire-ravaged clubhouse houses event rooms and hosts weddings and special events.
This is breaking news. More to follow.
