HUNDREDS of bird watchers have descended on Heybridge from across the country to catch a glimpse of a rare bird... but it has left neighbours fuming over poor parking. 

Twitchers flocked to Heybridge Hall Sluice reedbed to catch a glimpse of the northern waterthrush. 

The bird breeds in Canada and the northern United States, such as Alaska.

It is also known to spend winters in regions including Central America, the West Indies and Florida, but is a very rare vagrant to western Europe.

Since being spotted in area, hundreds of bird watchers have travelled to the site to try and sight the bird. 

But Heybridge residents have been left at the end of their tether after reports of badly parked vehicles causing issues.

The visiting bird watchers were advised not to park in Hall Road, Battle Rise or Freshwater Crescent.

Instead, it was suggested they park either at Daisy Meadow car park at Heybridge Basin or along the Causeway and the retail park near Tesco.

This is due to safety concerns after an ambulance reportedly struggled to get through on Friday.

Residents were also said to have faced difficulties getting in and out of the estate.

Nick Spenceley, ward councillor for Heybridge East, echoed the advice given by residents.

He said: “I’m pleased that people are excited about this rare visitor to Heybridge but I would request that visitors follow instructions they’ve been given by parking at nearby retail parks or Heybridge Basin car park and respect local residents."