A MAN was taken to hospital with serious leg and neck injuries following a five-vehicle accident on the A127.

The London-bound carriageway of the road at Noak Bridge was completely closed while the man was released by firefighters following the accident, which the ambulance service was called to at 6.40am.

The accident involved two Peter Goodward coaches, which were empty except for their drivers, a maroon Mercedes, a black Renault and a Blake Fire and Security Systems van.

East of England Ambulance Service had three ambulances, a paramedic car and an ambulance officer at the scene, where they also treated one other casualty, who was later discharged.

Traffic built up to Kent Elms Corner Junction, with oncoming traffic diverted off the A127 at Wickford, and motorists urged to avoid the road completely.

One lane re-opened at around 8am later but delays continues for more than five hours.

The second lane re-opened at about midday after the five vehicles were cleared from the scene.

Many motorists took to Twitter to warn others and to express sympathy with those involved in the accident.

One user (@xChiqu3) tweeted: “I am stuck on A127 cos of the accident! tail backs are past Wickford now! I haven't done a mile yet & I've been stuck for half hour.”

Caitlin Harris (@caitlinharrisx) missed her driving test because of the disruption.

She tweeted: “So gutted I missed my driving test slot and can't even get the money back because I was stuck behind an accident on A127.”

Lizzie Jane (@Lizziee) said her thoughts were with those involved in the crash.

She tweeted: “3 ambulances, 2 police cars, 4 fire engines. Thoughts with all involved in A127 crash this morning.”

Police are urging witnesses to contact PC Tina Quinlivan at Laindon road policing office on 101.