A boat has fallen from the back of a vehicle and landed in the middle of the road, according to witnesses trying to make their way out of Southend this afternoon.

The incident has left the London-bound A127 blocked at the junction with Hobleythick Lane.

It has landed in the road outside the Shell petrol station and opposite the Toby Carvery.

Motorists are reporting severe traffic delays and vehicles are queued up all the way back to Victoria Avenue.

Echo:

It is unknown what caused the boat to fall off at this stage or whether emergency services are on scene to help clear the obstruction.

Drivers are advised to find alternative routes and avoid the area or allow extra time to travel.

We will bring you more information once it becomes available.