AN investigation has been launched after five derelict caravans were destroyed in a fire.

Firefighters were called to Beach Road, St Osyth, just after 10pm on Wednesday.

Officers reported the five caravans - which spanned an area of 80sqm - were completely ablaze and the area was filled with smoke. 

The two crews from Clacton and another from Weeley overcame access issues at the site, which was blocked with discarded waste.

The blaze was put out by 11.20pm.

A fire service investigation is set to take place today.