FIREFIGHTERS had to tackle two separate bin fires within metres of each other in Southend town centre this morning.

Crews from Southend fire station were called out at 1.20am after receiving reports of a large wheelie bin at the back of Caffe Nero, in High Street, was alight.

Shortly after arriving at the scene, they were then informed two other bins behind O'Neill's pub were also engulfed in flames.

The fires were both dealt with by 3.30am and officers who attended the scene said the incidents were start deliberately.