POLICE are continuing to investigate a serious crash on the A13 on the Basildon border yesterday afternoon (Friday, 25 November) in which a woman suffered serious injuries.

The crash happened just after 3.30pm on the westbound slip road at the Five Bells roundabout, Fobbing, and spread onto the main carriageway of the A13.

Traffic was diverted for a considerable time as the incident was dealt with, leading to substantial congestion as vehicles detoured through Fobbing and Corringham.

The seriousness of the incident was reflected in a statement by the East of England Ambulance Service which said: "We were called at 3.42pm to a road traffic collision on the southbound A13 near Stanford-le-Hope.

"Three ambulances, an ambulance officer and the East Anglian Air Ambulance were sent to the scene. One patient was transported to Basildon and Thurrock University Hospital for treatment."

Fire crews also attended.

A statement from Essex Police says: "We were called at 3.40pm following reports of a collision involving a pedestrian and vehicles on the London-bound track of the carriageway on the slip road.

"A woman, who is thought to have got out of her vehicle, a silver Nissan, was in collision with a red Seat Leon.

"The woman suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital. The carriageway was closed while emergency services dealt with the scene.

"We are continuing to investigate the circumstances and anyone who witnessed the incident who has not yet come forward.

"If you have any information about this incident please quote incident 723 of 25 November.

"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 and 9pm. Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting their website."