TRAFFIC is being advised to avoid the area of North Stifford and the Mardyke bridge following a crash just before 10am today, Sunday 7 August.

Emergency services were called to the incident which involved a head in collision at what is becoming an accident blackspot following the continued increase in local traffic.

A man was arrested following the incident. An Essex Police statement says: "A man has been arrested following a collision in Stifford Hill, North Stifford.

"We were called to reports of a collision involving two cars at around 9.40am on Sunday 7 August.

"It's not believed anyone has been seriously injured.

"A man has been arrested and our enquiries are ongoing.

"If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us. Please quote incident 449 of 7 August.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

"Alternatively you can call us on 101. If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."

An East of England Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "We responded to reports of a road traffic collision between two cars on Stifford Road, Grays earlier today.

"There were no serious injuries. An ambulance transported one patient to Basildon and Thurrock Hospital for further treatment."