A WOMAN has died in a car crash in Leigh.

Police, fire and ambulance crews were called out at 5.30am this morning to an accident in New Road.

Sadly one woman died at the scene. 

An Essex Police spokesman said: "Police were called to the junction of New Road and Hadleigh Road in Leigh shortly before 5.30am this morning, Saturday July 1 with reports a van was in collision with a lamppost.

"Sadly the driver, a woman aged in her 40s, died at the scene.

"The road is closed while emergency services are on scene.

"Drivers are asked to avoid the area and are thanked for their patience.

"Witnesses to the collision are asked to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01245 240590 or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk."

New Road is shut both ways due to serious accident between Leigh Park Road/Leigh Hill and Belton Gardens/Belton Bridge.

The crash is also affecting Belton Gardens from Belton Way East (Leigh-on-sea station).

There is still access to and from the station.

The road will be closed for most of the morning.

The fire, police and ambulance services have been contacted for comment.