A police investigation has been launched after five lorries suffered damaged worth several hundred thousand pounds during an arson attack.

Officers and fire crews were called to the incident to JKS Construction Ltd on the Purdeys Industrial Estate in Purdeys Way, Rochford, shortly before 6am today.

Officers say the investigation is still in its early stages and they are reviewing CCTV and making other enquiries and that they've established the fire started sometime around 5am to 5.15am.

DC Iain White said: “The lorries suffered extensive damage. This reckless criminal behaviour has caused damage costing several hundred thousand pounds and significant disruption to the business."

Police would like to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time and saw anyone acting suspiciously, or has any camera footage that might be able to help with the police enquiries.

Anyone with information should contact Southend CID on 101 quoting incident 125 of 30 June, or report it online at https://www.essex.police.uk

Alternatively, contact independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or https://crimestoppers-uk.org.