A MAN who was hit by a train in south Essex has sadly died in hospital, police have confirmed.

On Saturday morning, Essex rail operator Greater Anglia confirmed a person had been hit by a train between Southend Victoria and Wickford.

Police officers from British Transport Police and paramedics from the East of England Ambulance Service rushed to the scene after the incident was reported just before 5.30am.

Detectives investigating the circumstances surrounding the man’s death have now confirmed he died in hospital.

His death is not being treated as suspicious, British Transport Police said.

In a statement, a spokesman for the force said: “Officers were called to the line near Prittlewell railway station at around 5.26am on Saturday, May 4 following reports of a casualty on the tracks.”

“Paramedics also attended and a man was taken to hospital where he sadly died. The incident is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner,” he added.

If you're struggling, you can call Samaritans for free day or night, 365 days a year, on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.