A massive fire engulfed a historic 19th-century golf club, releasing a column of smoke visible for miles.
Approximately 60 firefighters from over 10 different stations battled the blaze at West Essex Golf Club in Waltham Abbey, Epping Forest, on Monday afternoon. The entire two-story clubhouse, measuring about 25m by 15m, was impacted, as reported by Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, who logged the incident at 2.41pm.
Fire crews from various stations including Harlow, Rayleigh Weir, Loughton, Chelmsford, Grays, as well as Urban Search and Rescue and Technical Rescue teams, were present. Support was also provided by London Fire Brigade and Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Upon arrival, the first responders confirmed the safety of all individuals and reported no injuries. Additional fire engines were requested for assistance.
By 5pm, progress was being made in controlling the significant fire and efforts were focused on preventing it from spreading to the rear of the building, according to the fire service’s online incident log. The fire was fully extinguished by 6.45pm.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and an investigation will be conducted once the site is secure.
West Essex Golf Club, known as The West, is described as a warm and hospitable club with a championship course designed by James Braid within the beautiful Epping Forest.
Established in 1900, the course and club’s clubhouse were inaugurated on May 14, 1989, by Sir Michael Bonallack OBE, a renowned British amateur golfer.
The Mirror has reached out to West Essex Golf Club for additional details.