Herts Fire Service declared a major incident after extreme heatwave temperatures saw a spike in callouts - including to a 70 acre field fire at Codicote, near Hitchin, that also saw horses evacuated from nearby stables as a precaution.

On the hottest day in recorded history after the mercury eased past 40C on Tuesday (July 19) Herts Fire Service declared a major incident throughout the county, that saw 25 fire trucks and appliances fight the fire during the day.

Herts Fire Service told Hitchin Nub News: "We were called at 249pm yesterday [Tuesday] to a standing crop on fire in Three Houses Lane, Codicote. 

"Throughout the course of the incident 25 different appliances were on the scene, although not all at the same time.

"Approximately 70 acres of field lane dry crops well alight. 

"Horses evacuated from nearby stables and nearby houses evacuated as a precautionary measure."

Crews are still on the scene dealing with 'hot spots' and small fires still reigniting.