A DRIVER fled the scene after a crash in Westcliff.

Essex Police closed London Road in Westcliff this morning after a car crashed into the front of a restaurant.

A spokesman said: "We were called with reports that a gold Lexus car had been in collision with the front of a restaurant on London Road, Westcliff, shortly before 5.30am this morning.

"The driver was reported to have left the scene following the collision.

"Officers arrived and closed part of the road for a short time, whilst the car was recovered.

"No arrests have been made and no injuries have been reported. Enquiries are ongoing."