AMBULANCE crews rushed to Billericay High Street on Christmas Day following reports of a “large-scale violent disturbance”.

According to a witness, police were also called to the town.

However, the nature of the incident and the exact location are not yet known.

Kevin Blake, deputy leader of the Conservative-run Basildon Council, said: “It’s saddening and worrying for this kind of thing to happen on Christmas Day because it’s a time of celebration and being with family.

“It’s very disappointing.

“Also, it’s surprising to hear it was in Billericay because it’s a nice area and doesn’t have a violent reputation.

“I praise the police and the ambulance service for acting so swiftly in responding to this horrific incident.”

A spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service said: “One ambulance was sent to Billericay High Street in the early hours of December 25 following reports of a large scale violent disturbance.

“No hospital transport was required.”

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We were called to reports of a fight in High Street, Billericay, at about 1am on Monday, December 25.

"Officers at the scene dispersed a crowd of people.

"There were no reports from members of the public at the scene of any injuries.

"Officers left the scene at about 2am."