A LORRY blocked the A12 after colliding with a car.

It became stuck across all three lanes of the southbound carriageway between Spring Lane, at junction 27 and Eight Ash Green, at junction 26.

Two people were taken by ambulance to Colchester General Hospital.

One had to be cut free.

Four fire crews helped cut a man free who was trapped for about 50 minutes.

The crash happened at about 1pm and the road remained blocked until about 3pm when one lane was opened.

All lanes were reopened by 3.30pm

Several roads across Colchester have become gridlocked as a result and traffic on the A12 is still queuing for several miles back beyond the A120 turn off at junction 29.

Commuters also face disruption between Boreham and Galleywood after a lorry careered through the barrier yesterday.

The outside lanes remain closed in both directions for barrier repair.