A MAN has died following a crash in Hockley Road, Rayleigh.

Four people were in a silver BMW coupe car when it lost control at around 3.20am this morning and smashed into a telegraph pole.

The man, in his 20s, and from Leigh, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Two girls, ages 17 and 18 from the Hockley area, were taken to hospital for treatment to minor injuries.

The driver, a 31 year-old man from Rochford, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

He is currently in police custody.

The road remains closed while officers carry out their initial investigations.

Engineers from UK Power Networks are also on the scene after surrounding homes were left without electricity.

Anyone who saw the vehicle before the collision or the incident itself should contact officers at the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 101 or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk