A FIELD fire broke out yards away from a railway lines.

Fire crews were called to a dry area near the Wivenhoe Trail shortly before 4pm on Monday.

They established it was a grass fire and were able to put it out within two hours.

An investigation was launched and it has now been recorded as accidental.

Prolonged spells of hot weather can lead to the risk of field fires.

During the dry spell, people are asked to be extra careful when disposing of cigarettes and glass products on fields which could spark flames.

They are also asked to avoid bonfires or disposable barbecues.

Anyone who sees a fire should report it immediately and not try to tackle it themselves.