THE damaged caused to a slip road off the A13 at the busy Five Bells roundabout last night caused problems for motorists and bus passengers this morning (Wednesday, 11 May).

Firefighters tackled the blaze but the double decker bus was completely destroyed and the intensity of the flames caused considerable damage to the slipway which is the eastbound one heading to the junction.

Workers were resurfacing this morning and the slipway was closed, meaning traffic was diverted to the Pitsea flyover junction and the increased volume of vehicles led to tailbacks.

Last night's incident was attended by all emergency services. The East of England Ambulance service sent an ambulance, rapid response vehicle and ambulance officer to this incident. Four patients were assessed at the scene but no one required transporting to hospital.