A MAJOR road in Southend was closed this morning after a police chase and resulting crash.

The A13 was closed at Chalkwell between Southbourne Grove and Nelson Road after a crash overnight.

A woman has been taken to hospital after the crash near the bus stop on the London-bound side near the junction with Leigh Road.

Work was carried out to repair damages to the road and clear all debris, with the road being opened by midday.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "Officers attempted to stop a Ford Fiesta in Sutton Road, Southend, at about 1.15am this morning.

"A short time later the car was in collision with a bus stop on the London-bound side of the A13 near the junction with Leigh Road.

"A woman inside the car was freed by firefighters and taken to hospital with serious injuries.

"A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving while unfit through drink or drugs, failing to stop for police and aggravated vehicle taking. He has been taken to hospital.

"The road is currently closed and drivers are asked to avoid the area."

"Enquiries are ongoing."

Anyone who witnessed the crash should call 101 quoting incident 35 of November 27.