A man in his eighties, was taken to hospital by paramedics after suffering from severe smoke inhalation.

Firefighters from Brentwood, Billericay and Corringham attended the incident reported to have taken place in Mascalls Gardens, Brentwood where the elderly man had inhaled a large amount of smoke attempting to extinguish a large fire.

When firefighters arrived at the scene at around 2.30pm, they reported a pile of manure measuring 20 metres by ten metres was alight.

The officer in charge immediately requested the support of a water bowser (a vehicle which is capable of holding a large amount of water) to ensure a constant supply to the area.

Crews worked hard to quickly surround and contain the fire, before extinguishing it completely by 4.49pm.

A nearby barn escaped major damage thanks to their efficiency.

Tom Side, crew manager at Brentwood fire station, said: "While we understand this gentleman's intentions were to try to help and do what he could to contain the fire, he actually put himself at huge risk.

"If you see a fire and it can't be put out with a bucket of water, think: 'get out, stay out and call the Fire Service out'.

"Get out of the building or area, stay out of harm's way and call the Fire Service out.

"During dry conditions at this time of year, outdoor fires can become serious very quickly - so please don't put yourself in danger."