ESSEX Police have reported the death of one of their officers who was killed when the motorbike he was riding was in collision with a lorry.

A statement from the force this evening (Friday, 18 December) says: "We are saddened to report that a member of the Essex Police family has died following a collision yesterday, Thursday 17 December.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. At this stage, we will not be naming the officer and would ask anyone commenting to respect the privacy of his loved ones.

"Our officer, who was off-duty, was riding a motorbike on the A414 at Writtle at around 1.55pm yesterday when it was involved in a collision with a lorry.

"The road was closed while we investigated. No-one has been arrested.

"We need anyone who saw the collision or has dash cam footage to contact us.

"If you have any information please call us on 101 quoting incident 572 of 17 December or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."