Essex Police: Investigations into Jaywick fire ongoing

The Beach Way fire on August 8 destroyed three homes and damaged seven others. Eight fire crews worked for hours to extinguish the massive blaze.

Police and ambulances were also on site and a man was taken to Colchester Hospital for further treatment.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Services said their investigation was complete and the fire was determined to be an accident.

Inferno – The flames destroyed three houses and damaged seven others. (Image: Keeley Davidson)

A spokesman said: “An investigation has been carried out to determine the cause of the fire in Beach Way, Clacton on Friday 8 August.

“We believe the fire was accidentally caused by embers from a campfire.”

Following the incident, a 47-year-old man was arrested for arson and later released on bail.

Essex Police told the Gazette that investigations into the fire were continuing.

Emergency – Smoke from the fire could be seen from over a mile away as emergency responders rushed to the scene. (Image: Bradley Thompson)

An Essex Police spokesman said: “Investigations are ongoing into a fire in Beach Way, Jaywick, last month.

“The fire investigation has determined that the fire was started accidentally, however we are continuing to investigate to determine whether any criminal offenses were committed in connection with the fire.

“An arrested man remains free on bail until October 11.”

The Clacton community has pulled together to help those affected by the fire.

Tendring Council, Sandy's Farm, The Sunspot and the Never Say Die Pub set up refuges and safe spaces for the people and animals affected, and several fundraising events took place in the days that followed.

Fight – Firefighters spent about 16 hours battling the fire and monitoring hot spots in the area. (Image: Natalie Hensel, Newsquest)A week later, Clacton MP Nigel Farage visited the scene of the accident in Beach Way and Weeley fire station, one of six stations that responded.

The head of Reform UK said: “I was very impressed by the dedication, commitment and professionalism of the entire crew.

“I am deeply sorry for everyone affected by the devastating fire in Jaywick.

“Without the swift and rapid response of Essex Fire Service, the situation could have escalated into an even greater tragedy.”