CONCERNS have been raised about “a little reminder” of the dangers presented by fires on Middlewick Ranges.

Firefighters were called out just after 4.30pm to tackle burning grassland near houses in Speedwell Road, Old Heath.

The flames were quickly doused, but not before residents had been reminded of fires that have burnt in to their back gardens in previous summers.

Dave Smith said the fire reached within 40 foot of houses, and engulfed an area built as a BMX track for local youngsters by Colchester Council’s street wardens.

“People were trying to beat the flames out when the fire brigade got here, and they had it all under control very quickly,” he said.

“Fortunately the wind was blowing towards Wick Lane rather than the houses, but we’ve had fires coming in to back gardens before and I do worry that houses will get burnt next time.”