A DRIVER suffered suspected spinal injuries after her car collided with a van.

The female driver of the Ford Focus had to be released by firefighters following a head-on crash with the transit van.

Two engines from Basildon fire station were called to Wickford Avenue, Basildon, at 1.45pm today.

The firefighters used hydraulic cutting equipment after she became trapped in the vehicle.

She was successfully released by 2.15pm and was immediately taken to Basildon Hospital by paramedics.

The casualty suffered a range of minor injuries including possible spinal injuries but her condition is described as stable.

The driver of the van was released by firefighters upon arrival and taken into the nearby Chalvedon School for medical treatment as a precaution.

Essex Police were also called to the incident and closed Wickford Avenue whilst the scene was cleared.

The cause of the crash is being investigated.