Priory Park has now reopened after an earlier police incident.

It remains unclear what has happened, but it is thought to involve a group of travellers.

Police have confirmed the travellers have now left the borough.

There are suggestions the travellers were involved in knife fights, but this has not been confirmed.

Councillor Mark Flewitt, cabinet member for public protection, said: “We are aware of an incident which took place in Priory Park.

"We are assisting Essex Police with their ongoing investigation. The situation is also being monitored by council staff on an on-going basis.”