Mason Lewsey

A man was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault after reports that girls were harassed at Basildon Bus Station and that one girl was assaulted on a number 25 bus. Essex Police described the suspect and appealed for witnesses, CCTV, dash-cam footage and other information, citing incident number 822 of August 19.

Southend United have become the most heavily backed team to win the 2026/27 National League after taking six points from their opening two matches. Oddschecker cut the club’s title odds from 8/1 before the season to 9/2, with Southend accounting for 25% of recent bets, though they remain third favourites behind Hartlepool and Carlisle. The strong start under manager Kieron Dyer included a 3–1 comeback win at Altrincham and a 1–0 home victory over Scunthorpe United, ahead of an away fixture against Solihull Moors.

Basildon Council has confirmed that the town’s annual Christmas event and lights switch-on will take place as planned on Saturday 14 November, dismissing online rumours that it had been cancelled. Further details on timings and activities will be released through the council’s usual communication channels.

A four-bedroom detached house on Allenby Crescent in Grays, Essex, has been listed by Beresfords for £1.25 million. The property combines period-style features such as reclaimed timbers, exposed beams and an inglenook fireplace with modern amenities including an open-plan kitchen and family room, bar and games room, en-suite bedrooms and a private garden. An outbuilding and basement offer potential additional uses, while the home is close to Grays Town Park, Grays Station, major roads, Lakeside Shopping Centre and local schools.

Traffic was held in both tunnels at the Dartford Crossing after a crash on the anticlockwise M25 near the Dartford Tunnel. Vehicles were stationary between Junction 1A for Dartford and Junction 31 for Lakeside and Purfleet, with queues extending towards Junction 2 for the A2. The circumstances of the crash were not yet known, and drivers were warned to expect delays.

Drone footage shows the aftermath of a Greater Anglia train derailment in Wickford, where two carriages left the track but remained upright after striking a pole shortly after 2pm. Emergency services attended, and 62 passengers were treated at the scene. Salcott Crescent was closed, while nearly 100 services between London Liverpool Street and Southend Victoria were cancelled, with disruption expected to continue until the end of the day.

A Greater Anglia train derailed near Wickford station shortly after 2 p.m., with two carriages leaving the track upright and striking a pole. Emergency services assessed 62 passengers at the scene, and all were discharged; no casualties were reported. A second train also had to be evacuated. Police and railway officials launched an investigation, while nearly 100 services between London Liverpool Street and Southend Victoria were cancelled. Authorities expected disruption to continue through the day and cited the exceptionally hot, dry weather as a possible contributing factor, alongside measures including track-temperature monitoring and speed restrictions.

Southend Council has approved signage plans for a new Greggs branch on Leigh Broadway, allowing development to proceed at the former Factory Shop site. The proposal has faced opposition from residents who want the area to prioritize independent businesses. A petition launched by Leigh resident and former council candidate Enzo Harrison has collected 1,979 signatures, but Greggs will now move forward with the store.

Two people were injured when three cars and a van collided on the westbound A13 near the A130 junction in Bowers Gifford. The crash caused the road to close for several hours and led to significant congestion. Essex Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with relevant dashcam footage, asking them to quote incident 411 of Sunday 9 August.

A 37-year-old man formerly from Southend has been charged with three counts of vehicle interference following an investigation into car break-ins in West Horndon during February. He remains in custody and is due to appear at Basildon Magistrates' Court in September. PC Keeley Bourke of Brentwood's Neighbourhood Policing Team said the incidents had caused residents disruption and insecurity, and urged people to report suspicious behaviour around vehicles.

Essex Police are seeking witnesses, CCTV, dashcam or other footage after a multi-vehicle crash on the M11 between Junctions 6 and 7 near Harlow. One person was taken to hospital with a possible head injury. The motorway was closed for recovery work, with emergency barrier repairs and significant delays expected after reopening.

Basildon Council will begin waste collections at 6:30 a.m. on Thursday 13 and Friday 14 August because temperatures in south Essex are forecast to reach about 33°C. Residents are asked to put bins out before the earlier start time, while glass collections remain unchanged. Basildon follows Southend, Castle Point and Thurrock councils in bringing collections forward to protect crews from the hottest part of the day; Rochford will make no schedule changes. The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency have issued heat-related warnings for the region.

Hopefield Animal Sanctuary in Brentwood will close to the public on Thursday, August 13, because temperatures are forecast to reach 34°C. The closure will allow staff to provide rescued animals with extra water checks, cooling measures and care. The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning covering parts of Essex, while the UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber heat health alert through August 14. Visitors with bookings will be contacted by the sanctuary.

The eastbound A13 near Rainham remained closed nearly eight hours after a car overturned in a crash shortly after 1 p.m. Three people were treated at the scene and taken to hospital, while police reported no serious injuries. The closure between Marsh Way and Ferry Lane continued for investigation work, causing severe congestion toward the Goresbrook Interchange, with delays of about 18 minutes and average speeds of five mph.

A newly refurbished five-bedroom detached house on Wakering Road in Southend is being marketed for £1.2 million by Niche Homes. The 2,690-square-foot property occupies roughly one-third of an acre near Shoeburyness railway station and Shoebury East Beach, and includes an open-plan kitchen and family room, home office, multiple en-suite bedrooms, landscaped gardens, a hot tub, greenhouse and double garage.

Essex Police released footage showing Police Dog Kaiser and PC Martin Swain tracking down 18-year-old burglar Callum Lackenby after a stolen BMW crashed near Billericay. Caner Yakut was arrested weeks later after fleeing a stolen Volkswagen Golf in Southend. Investigations linked both men to an organized crime group involved in high-value burglaries and vehicle thefts across several counties. Yakut received a 54-month prison sentence, while Lackenby was sentenced to three years.

One lane of the eastbound A13 near Ferry Lane, just after the Dagenham turn-off by Rainham, was closed after reports of a collision. Traffic delays of approximately 55 minutes were increasing from Ferry Lane back to Gale Street, with congestion also forming on the Dagenham entry slip road. Unconfirmed reports said a car had overturned, while the Metropolitan Police confirmed there were no serious injuries.

Bournes Green Chase, part of the A13 in Southend, was closed in both directions between Maplin Way North and Poynters Lane after a crash. Essex and Herts Air Ambulance attended the collision at 12:06 p.m. Traffic was generally coping, though congestion was reported near the Maplin Way North junction. The circumstances of the crash were unknown, and drivers were advised to use alternative routes and expect delays.

Dogs Trust Basildon is seeking homes for five dogs: Cyndi, Ty, Florence, Diesel and Ronnie. The profiles outline each dog's personality, breed, age, behavioral needs and ideal household, including requirements around owner experience, children, other pets, exercise, socialisation and handling.

Thundersley in south Essex is profiled for its ancient history, literary connections, industrial past and natural landscapes. The village's name derives from Old English and it is recorded in the Domesday Book; it later became part of Castle Point. Former residents include novelist Fergus Hume and author Bernard Cornwell, while the Greeves motorcycle factory represents its industrial heritage. Thundersley Great Common is highlighted as a significant heathland site, and Pound Wood supports rare heath fritillary butterflies alongside several surrounding woodlands. Community groups, sports clubs and leisure facilities continue to support local life and preserve the area's character.

A cyclist in his 60s died at the scene after colliding with a Nissan vehicle on Thorley Street in Bishop’s Stortford. A 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and remains in hospital pending questioning. Police have appealed for witnesses and dashcam footage, while road closures were implemented during the emergency response.

A black Ford Fiesta was stolen from a driveway on Oakleigh Park Drive in Leigh-on-Sea at about 12:40 a.m. on July 11. Essex Police said three suspects wearing hoodies and face coverings were involved, including one wearing a Nike tracksuit, and released CCTV images seeking their identification. Witnesses are asked to quote investigation number 42/109196/26 when contacting police or Crimestoppers.

Rail services across the c2c network were disrupted after police requested a stoppage because of a trespasser between Chafford Hundred and Ockendon. Several trains were cancelled, delayed by up to 45 minutes, or diverted, with some stations skipped. Disruption was expected to continue until 1:15 p.m., and affected passengers may be eligible for compensation through c2c’s Delay Repay scheme.

A motorcyclist suffered a serious leg injury in a collision involving a motorcycle and truck on the A13 near Chafford Hundred and Stanford-le-Hope at about 7:20 a.m. The injured man was taken to Basildon University Hospital, while the crash caused significant eastbound traffic delays. Essex Police are investigating and appealing for witnesses.

A crash on the London-bound A13 near Junction 30 of the M25 caused the closure of the fourth lane and queues back toward the A1012 turn-off near North Stifford. Delays were reported at around six minutes, with drivers advised to allow extra travel time. Details of the crash were not yet known, and Essex Police had been asked for comment.

Bogaz Kitchen, a kebab takeaway on Rayleigh Road in Eastwood, received a zero food hygiene rating after an April 20 inspection found serious problems with facility cleanliness, condition and food-safety management. The business voluntarily closed briefly and carried out extensive cleaning and other remedial work, with a subsequent visit finding significant improvement. However, the premises remains rated zero and subject to urgent-improvement requirements, with further monitoring visits planned before a full inspection scheduled for April 2027.

A four-bedroom detached home in Barling Magna, south Essex, is being marketed by Hunt Roche for £1 million. Built in 2000, the New England-style property includes spacious reception areas, a Shaker-style kitchen, a vaulted principal bedroom suite, landscaped gardens, a summerhouse, a garden office, and a detached twin garage. It has panoramic farmland views and is located within a few miles of local schools, Thorpe Bay station, and Southend International Airport.

Two people were taken to Southend Hospital after a two-vehicle collision on Benfleet Road near Hadleigh. One person was suspected of having serious injuries. Essex Police attended, while the East of England Ambulance Service sent two ambulances and a rapid response vehicle. The road was temporarily closed, causing additional traffic delays alongside gas works and a separate crash on the A127.

One eastbound lane of the A127 between Dunton Junction and the Fortune of War remained closed for a third day after a water main burst beside the road. Essex and Suffolk Water completed repairs overnight, but reinstatement work and the reason for the continued closure had not been fully confirmed. Delays of about six minutes were reported, with queues extending toward the Brentwood turn-off, and drivers were advised to allow extra travel time.

Pitsea High Road may remain closed after a burst water main on Burns Avenue interrupted ongoing resilience works by Essex and Suffolk Water. The company carried out a temporary repair to maintain customers’ water supply, but further work could require the closure to continue. First Bus services B3, B4 and 22 were diverted via Hazelmere, Pitsea Hall Lane and Broadway Link, with Station Lane omitted from their routes.

Benfleet Road near Hadleigh was closed in both directions after a serious collision, disrupting traffic using the route as a diversion for Tarpots roadworks. A separate multi-vehicle crash on the A127 near Eastwood added to delays, and drivers were advised to avoid the area while further details remained unavailable.

Train operator c2c cancelled 26 services between south Essex and London because forecast temperatures of up to 34°C could damage tracks, overhead lines and other rail infrastructure. The cancellations affect routes to and from London Fenchurch Street, Shoeburyness, Grays, Pitsea and Thorpe Bay. Passengers are advised to check live updates, allow extra travel time, use alternative services where possible and carry water.

Seabed surveys are under way around the SS Richard Montgomery shipwreck off Southend to determine whether the seabed can support a jack-up barge. The tests are part of a £9.5 million operation scheduled to begin removing the wreck’s three masts in September. The masts will be cut into sections, transported to Chatham Historic Dockyard for preservation and public display, and reduced below sea level to lessen structural-collapse risks. An exclusion zone will remain in place during the work because the wreck still contains an estimated 1,400 tonnes of explosives.

A yellow heat health alert covering Essex and the wider East of England was upgraded to amber from 9am on July 29 to 9am on July 30 as temperatures were forecast to reach 34°C. The UK Health Security Agency warned of increased risks to older people and those with existing health conditions, including higher mortality, pressure on care services, hospital and care-home overheating, workforce disruption, transport problems, power-demand challenges and water-related incidents. The Met Office forecast hot, settled conditions before cooler and more unsettled weather from Thursday.

Two separate fires broke out in Southend overnight, one near Jones Memorial Recreation Ground on Eastern Avenue and another involving a caravan on Ambleside Drive. The caravan was destroyed and the fire was extinguished by Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, while Essex Police taped off the scene pending a crime scene investigation. The causes of both fires remained unknown.

A five-bedroom equestrian property on Stock Road in Stock, Essex, has been listed for £2.75 million. The 6,500-square-foot home sits on 7.3 acres and includes four bedroom suites, a principal suite with dressing room and en suite bathroom, a detached annexe, triple garage and substantial barn. Its grounds feature landscaped gardens, mature planting, orchard areas, roses and a Hartley Botanical greenhouse. The property is close to Stock village amenities and has access to London via nearby Ingatestone and Billericay railway stations, with schools and major road links also nearby.

Dogs Trust Basildon is seeking homes for five dogs: Warner, Phillip, Bess, Jam and Ruby. The dogs range from five to almost eleven years old and have different requirements involving children, other pets, activity levels and home environments. Several need to be the only pet, while Bess and Ruby are currently being cared for by foster families.

A five-bedroom detached bungalow on High Road in Rayleigh is being marketed by Niche Homes for £1.2 million. The gated property includes an open-plan kitchen, dining and lounge area, four en-suite double bedrooms, a potential annexe, underfloor heating, smart Velux roof lights, multiple loft spaces and a landscaped rear garden. It is within walking distance of Rayleigh Station and close to schools and the high street.

Lane closures at Basildon's BP roundabout near East Mayne are expected to remain in place over the weekend while Essex & Suffolk Water reinstates the road surface after repairing a leaking pipe near Cranes Farm Road. The company expects the work and traffic management removal to be completed by Monday. The leak was likely linked to hot, dry weather, which can cause ground movement and place stress on underground pipes, while the closures have caused peak-time traffic disruption.

A free shuttle bus will operate between Tarpots in Benfleet and Hadleigh Bus Depot from July 25 to August 15 while London Road is closed for essential Cadent Gas works. Funded by Cadent Gas and coordinated with diverted First Bus routes, the service will run every 30 minutes on weekdays during peak and midday periods, with additional journeys. Passengers are advised to check First Bus for timetable updates.

Lazydays Festival returns to Priory Park in Southend for a three-day programme of music, food and family entertainment. The lineup includes Tinie Tempah, Professor Green, Leigh-Anne, Feeder, The Pigeon Detectives, The Subways, Sister Sledge, Heather Small and Natalie Imbruglia. Friday and Sunday tickets remain available while Saturday is sold out. The non-camping event will feature food stalls, bars, children’s activities, rides, comedy and street theatre, with restrictions on bags, outside food and drink, pets and re-entry. Additional late-night trains and shuttle buses will help festival-goers travel to and from the venue.

A series of recent rescues near the offshore Mulberry Harbour in Southend has led HM Coastguard to issue safety warnings to beachgoers. Visitors have been trapped by incoming tides while walking to the historic structure but were safely recovered by RNLI crews. The Coastguard advises checking tide times, wearing proper footwear, and avoiding the prohibited structure, noting that tidal changes in the area can be rapid and deceptive. Those stranded are urged to call emergency services.

Essex County Council addresses criticism from MP Rebecca Harris over overlapping roadworks on major routes in south Essex. Officials state the projects are scheduled overnight with only one road closure at a time and are not expected to cause major disruption. The council explains the necessity and timing of each scheme, including gas mains replacement at Tarpots, vehicle restraint work on the A127, and ongoing works on the A1245.

A luxury ground-floor apartment on Chalkwell Esplanade in Westcliff-on-Sea is listed for over £1,175,000, featuring sea views, an open-plan living space, two en-suite bedrooms, a terrace, secure parking, and access to communal gardens. Its location offers easy access to Chalkwell Station and nearby cafés, restaurants, and shops.

The long-abandoned Marks & Spencer building in Basildon town centre has been revisited in a video shared by council leader Andy Barnes, showing empty floors and remnants of the former store. Since its 2018 closure, redevelopment plans have shifted between Labour’s proposal for a Boxpark-style venue and the current Conservative administration’s decision to refurbish and lease the building as commercial space.

Police are appealing for help locating 49-year-old James Sutton from Basildon, who has links to Witham and may be using public transport. He is described as slim, 5ft 9ins tall, with short black hair and stubble, and was last seen wearing a black hoodie and jogging bottoms. Authorities urge the public not to approach him but to call 999 with information, stating concern for his welfare.

Overnight lane closures on the A127 underpass near Rayleigh Weir will run from July 20 to October 17 for upgrades to the Vehicle Restraint System. The works are expected to slow traffic and may add to congestion already affected by Cadent Gas repairs on London Road in Benfleet. Closures will operate from 9pm to 5am to limit disruption, and Essex Highways will carry out the improvement project.

Police are seeking information after a man was reportedly chased and injured in a late-night assault on Oakleigh Park Drive in Leigh. The victim has not been located, and Detective Inspector Marcus Dodd urged the injured man or anyone with relevant information to come forward. Witnesses and those with CCTV or dashcam footage are asked to contact Essex Police or provide details anonymously through Crimestoppers.

A serious single‑vehicle crash closed the A127 in both directions between Rayleigh Weir and the Fairglen Interchange, causing heavy disruption as police and emergency services responded. Motorists were urged to seek alternatives while traffic built up through Rayleigh. Additional emergency services were contacted for further information.

A serious crash closed the westbound A127 between Rayleigh Weir and the Fairglen Interchange, causing congestion and delays in both directions. Drivers were advised to avoid the area while details of the incident remained unknown and emergency services were contacted for comment.

Police are seeking Jayqwan Stevens-Burke and Cavalli Harriott in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 23‑year‑old man on Andre Street in Hackney, with Stevens‑Burke known to frequent Grays. Investigators continue to build a timeline of events and appeal to the public for information, directing potential witnesses to contact police or Crimestoppers anonymously.

A detached two‑bedroom Goldsworthy bungalow in Thorpe Bay is being marketed by Abbotts for £625,000, offering traditional character, an extensive rear garden, a workshop, and convenient access to local amenities and transport links. The home includes spacious living areas, a modern kitchen, a loft study space, off‑street parking, and proximity to schools, shops, and beaches, making it positioned as a desirable option for buyers seeking a well‑presented property in a sought‑after neighbourhood.

Southend Airport is recruiting for a range of roles across air traffic control, food and beverage, engineering, passenger services, and security. Positions include air traffic controller, food and beverage management and service roles, commercial optimisation, passenger experience, security training, and air traffic engineering. Each job outlines specific qualifications and experience requirements, along with an emphasis on safety, customer service, and operational efficiency.

Police are appealing for witnesses after a fight between two women broke out during a Supergirl screening at Basildon Cineworld. Both sustained non‑serious injuries, and one woman was arrested and later released on bail. Officers request information, footage, or anonymous reports via Crimestoppers, asking witnesses to reference case number 42/111488/26.

A major section of the A13 London Road in Benfleet is closed following an unspecified police incident involving a large emergency response that includes fire, ambulance and multiple police units. Traffic is being turned around while the situation is managed, and motorists are advised to avoid the area as authorities have not yet confirmed the nature of the incident.

Dog walkers reported smoke in woodland on Sawyers Hall Lane in Brentwood, enabling firefighters to quickly contain a deep-seated fire before it spread. Brentwood Fire Station urged the public to call 999 immediately if they see smoke and warned of fast-spreading fires during hot, dry conditions. Crews extinguished the fire using backpack sprayers and reminded residents to avoid bonfires, barbecues and campfires in wooded areas.

Rayleigh Road in Eastwood has reopened after gas main works by Cadent caused weeks of disruption compounded by water main bursts and a power cable failure along diversion routes. Southend Council confirmed completion of the works while warning that the next phase will fully close Snakes Lane from July 20 to September 14, with diversions via Eastwoodbury Lane, Nestuda Way, Prince Avenue and Rayleigh Road. Motorists are urged to allow extra travel time, particularly near Southend Airport, with access to the David Lloyd Leisure Centre maintained. Further updates will follow as works progress.

An overturned lorry caused a fuel spill that shut Southend Road in Rochford in both directions, with authorities warning the closure could last for some time due to cleanup needs. Traffic congestion developed as drivers sought alternative routes, and motorists were advised to avoid the area. Emergency services confirmed the lorry driver was uninjured while police remained on-site during recovery efforts.

An 11-year-old Tottenham Hotspur fan, George Dennis, died after a lorry collision in Ongar, prompting player Xavi Simons to invite his family to a future Spurs match. Former midfielder David Bentley also paid tribute by bringing a personalised Spurs shirt to England’s semi-final against Argentina and encouraging donations to support the family. George’s mother honoured him as a joyful and kind child, while police arrested a lorry driver on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

A vehicle fire closed a lane on the M25 clockwise at Junction 27 near the M11, causing slow traffic and significant delays between Junctions 26 and 28. Drivers are advised to seek alternative routes or allow extra travel time. National Highways and the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service have been contacted for further information.

Two people received £100 fixed penalties for launching jet skis in prohibited areas along the Southend coastline. Essex Police’s Marine Unit issued the fines under the city’s water‑based public spaces protection order, which allows launches only from the Ness Road slipway. Public reports led officers to the offenders at Two Tree Island and Bell Wharf, with police emphasising safety on Southend’s busy waters.

Emergency roadworks by Anglia Water on Southend Road in Rochford are causing major congestion around Southend Airport, Eastwood, Rochford town centre and Prittlewell, with delays expected until late on July 17 and drivers advised to avoid the area or plan alternate routes.

Fire crews responded to two additional deliberately set fires in Wickford's Grange Park, bringing the total to five in a week amid hot, dry weather that heightens fire risks. Essex firefighters warned that intentional fires endanger lives and divert resources from other emergencies. Authorities urged the public to report suspicious behaviour to help protect the community.

Emergency crews issued warnings after three deliberately set fires occurred within 24 hours in Grange Park, prompting calls for public vigilance, reporting of suspicious behaviour, and ensuring clear access for responders.

A serious collision on the A13 near the Five Bells Roundabout has closed the road and caused delays of nearly an hour, with traffic backed up beyond the Stanford-le-Hope turn-off. Reports indicate three vehicles may be involved, and speeds have dropped to around 5mph. Drivers are being advised to use alternative routes while emergency services respond.

A two-vehicle collision in Benfleet sent one car into the side of the Anchor Inn pub, prompting responses from fire crews, police, and ambulance services. One person initially reported trapped freed themselves, and two casualties were treated by paramedics. The crash caused major traffic disruption, blocking Essex Way and High Road and creating long delays near Benfleet Station, with motorists urged to avoid the area.

A crash on the A1245 at the Fairglen Interchange has partially blocked the junction, causing growing traffic delays on all approaches. Drivers are advised to allow extra time while details about the number of vehicles involved or injuries remain unknown. Emergency services have been contacted for further information.

Investigators marked the one‑year anniversary of a fatal medical transport plane crash at Southend Airport that killed four people by releasing an update describing the aircraft’s loss of control shortly after take‑off and the subsequent fire. The AAIB continues to analyse limited physical evidence, video, and CCTV while examining technical, operational, human, and organisational factors. Post‑mortem findings confirmed traumatic head injuries for the victims, and a final report will follow once the investigation is complete. An inquest remains paused pending further progress.

Southend-on-Sea is highlighted as one of Britain’s sunniest seaside destinations, averaging 1,884 hours of sunshine annually and offering attractions such as Southend Pier, Adventure Island, and nearby budget accommodation. Reviewers praise the lively seafront, family‑friendly activities, and practical amenities. Other sunny UK seaside spots listed include Bognor Regis, Eastbourne, and Shanklin on the Isle of Wight.

Five dogs at Dogs Trust Basildon are seeking new homes, each with distinct temperaments and needs. Latte requires a calm environment with space to build confidence, while Blaidd thrives with active families and playful dog companions. Flynn needs an adult-only home with structured training and no other pets. Jax fits best with experienced adult owners familiar with bull breeds, and Tetley, an affectionate older dog with disabilities, requires a quiet home without other pets or children.

Several cats being cared for by Cats Protection in Essex are highlighted as needing new homes, including pairs of bonded sisters, a playful kitten, and friendly young adults. Volunteers describe each cat’s temperament and the type of home that would best suit them, encouraging prospective adopters to consider offering them permanent homes.

Police are searching for a driver who fled after crashing a vehicle into a wall outside a home on Linroping Avenue in Canvey late on July 9. Officers and air support responded but were unable to locate the individual, and although the wall was hit, the house itself was not damaged. No arrests have been made, and enquiries continue.

Damage to overhead electric cables has halted all Greater Anglia rail services between Wickford and Southminster, prompting replacement bus arrangements and expected delays. Network Rail teams are investigating the issue, and passengers may use alternative trains or seek compensation through the Delay Repay scheme. Both Greater Anglia and Network Rail have issued apologies while an update is expected within an hour.

Emergency crews responded to a collision on Benfleet Road between Shipwrights Drive and Hadleigh Park Avenue, leading to road closures and delays. Photos showed multiple emergency vehicles, and commuters were advised to avoid the area or allow extra travel time. Authorities have been contacted for additional information.

A crash on the London-bound M11 near Junction 4 has left the road partially blocked, causing around five miles of congestion and delays of approximately 18 minutes. Traffic is backing up toward Junction 26 for the M25, worsened by motorists diverting to avoid separate queues caused by emergency repairs on the M25 near Enfield. Drivers are advised to plan ahead to minimise further disruption.

A significant wildfire near Saffron Walden prompted Essex County Fire and Rescue Service to warn of heightened risks as hot, dry weather continues. Fire crews urged farmers to prepare for potential fires during the busy harvest season and recommended using the what3words app to speed emergency response. The service stressed early reporting to help protect farmland and rural communities.

Emergency services responded to a collision between a car and motorcycle on Waterside Roundabout in Canvey, sending multiple ambulance units. The male motorcyclist was taken to Southend University Hospital for treatment, and police inquiries are ongoing.

A man was taken to Southend University Hospital after being hit by a car on London Road in South Benfleet shortly after 9 a.m. Emergency services responded with an ambulance sent to the scene. Traffic congestion developed in the surrounding area, including delays extending to Sadlers Farm roundabout.

Long delays are reported on the A130 near the A12 junction in Chelmsford, with slow‑moving northbound traffic between Rettendon Turnpike and Howe Green due to roadworks. Sensors indicate delays of about 20 minutes, and drivers are advised to allow extra travel time.

Waitrose in Southend will undergo a refurbishment beginning later this month while remaining open, though several counters and the café will close temporarily. Specific closures include butcher, fishmonger, deli and cheese counters from August 30 to September 1, the sushi counter from July 13, and the café until October 23. Toilets will also be unavailable, with temporary facilities provided. Customers may experience changes to delivery slots and are encouraged to speak with staff for updates.

Traffic is building at the Tarpots junction in Benfleet, with delays extending toward Sadlers Farm following unconfirmed reports of an accident. Emergency services have been contacted for comment, and drivers are advised to plan alternative routes as the severity of delays remains unclear.

Extended alcohol licensing hours will allow Basildon pubs and bars to stay open until 5am to show England’s 1am World Cup match against Mexico, following a government waiver of individual licensing applications. Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the move, and Basildon Council said it is working with businesses to ensure safe operation. Multiple local venues have valid applications to open for the match, whose winner will advance to face Brazil or Norway.

Pubs and bars in Southend will remain open until 5am to show England’s 1am World Cup match against Mexico after a temporary extension of licensing hours approved by the UK Government. Southend Council encouraged residents to support local venues offering screenings and matchday deals. Multiple pubs across the town confirmed they will show the round‑of‑16 match, with the winner set to face either Brazil or Norway.

A fully refurbished luxury seafront apartment in Crowstone Court, Westcliff-on-Sea, offering over 2,000 square feet of living space and panoramic estuary views, has been listed for offers over £1 million. The property includes an open-plan lounge, dining area, modern kitchen, two en-suite bedrooms with terrace access, underfloor heating, integrated smart home technology and enhanced security features, along with allocated parking in a gated area.

A person died after falling from a building in Westcliff, prompting a large emergency response on Salisbury Avenue near the Grampian tower block. Police cordoned off the area and began investigating, while multiple ambulance crews attended. Essex Police confirmed the death and are expected to release a statement. The ambulance service has been contacted for further information, and support resources were noted for those in distress.

Residents in Eastwood are experiencing significant delays due to a combination of planned utility works and unexpected emergency repairs. Council leader Daniel Cowan explained that gas leaks, water main bursts and a power cable failure have worsened disruption, leading to additional closures. Multiple utility companies are coordinating with the council to complete works as quickly as possible, and motorists are advised to allow extra travel time.

Police responded to concerns for a young person's welfare at Basildon Hospital, temporarily closing the hospital and nearby road while managing the incident. An assault arrest was made, and further details have not yet been released. The hospital has reopened and an update is expected.

A taxi driver arrested on suspicion of drug driving has been released under investigation following a three‑vehicle collision at the Rayleigh Spur Roundabout in Essex. The crash involving a taxi, lorry and motorbike left the motorcyclist with a serious arm injury requiring hospital treatment. Emergency services, including the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance, attended and the road was closed. Essex Police continue to appeal for footage and information, which can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers.

A vulnerable 13-year-old boy reported missing from his home in Basildon was located after Essex Police initiated a search. Officers issued a description of the teenager and asked the public for information before confirming he had been found safely.

Multiple planned and emergency utility works in Eastwood, Southend, including gas main repairs by Cadent and electrical work by UK Power Networks, are causing long delays, diversions and bus disruptions. Southend Council acknowledged the congestion and urged patience while coordinating with utility companies to expedite completion. Key closures include Rayleigh Road between Kent Elms Corner and Brooklands Avenue, with additional restrictions around Eastwood Academy and ongoing works on Bellhouse Road.

Iceland confirmed that its new Food Warehouse store at Hilary Retail Park in Basildon will open on October 13, creating around 20 jobs. The store will operate alongside the existing Iceland branch in the town centre, which will remain open. Plans include internal and external alterations to the current unit occupied by Magnet, which has not officially announced a closure despite recent nationwide site reductions.

Fire crews responded to a bonfire burning out of control on Hillwood Grove in Wickford. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service reported firefighters were working to extinguish the blaze, with the situation described as ongoing and updates expected.

Councils in south Essex are monitoring an incoming heatwave that may prompt changes to bin collection schedules to protect collection crews. Basildon Council says no decisions have been made yet but adjustments will be implemented if temperatures require it. Southend Council recently began earlier rounds during the previous heatwave and is continuing to evaluate conditions with Suez. Rochford Council reports no planned changes, while Castle Point and Thurrock councils await comment as forecasters predict temperatures above 30C for several days.

A four-bedroom detached home on Stambridge Road in Essex has been listed for offers over £1,150,000, featuring three floors of living space combining character details with modern design. The property includes multiple reception rooms, an open‑plan kitchen with contemporary fittings, and a principal suite with dressing room and large ensuite. Additional bedrooms span the upper floors, and the rear garden offers privacy and countryside views. Positioned near Rochford and rail links to London, the home provides rural surroundings with convenient access to nearby services.

Two Ilford residents, Adina Mihai and Madalin Dumitru, were convicted of manslaughter for drugging and robbing men seeking sexual services, leading to two deaths. Police investigations tied them to poisonings involving GBL between 2024 and 2025, including the deaths of Gary Mouat and Malcolm King. Both offenders remain in custody awaiting sentencing.

Police issued an eviction notice to travellers who set up an illegal encampment in Lower Castle Park, leading to their departure the same day. Colchester Council, which owns the land, coordinated with Essex Police to manage the situation, though the number of occupants was not confirmed. A similar encampment near Colchester Rugby Club earlier in the month was also resolved after intervention by police and the council.

Six people were arrested in Grays after a disturbance in which a police officer was assaulted, though no serious injuries were reported. Police appealed for witnesses and requested any CCTV or dashcam footage. The incident occurred days after a separate disturbance on the same road that involved reports of fighting and damaged vehicles.

An Essex Police officer, Annabelle Shaker, was dismissed for gross misconduct after an accelerated hearing found she failed to follow management instructions, missed supervisor meetings, behaved abusively toward colleagues, and threw her body‑worn camera at another officer. Chief constable Ben‑Julian Harrington said her conduct fell far below expected standards and emphasised the force’s commitment to holding officers accountable.

A motorcyclist was seriously injured in a collision with a lorry at the Rayleigh Spur Roundabout on the A130, prompting an air ambulance response and a full road closure. Essex Police arrested the lorry driver on suspicion of drug driving and appealed for witnesses and footage to assist the investigation.

A motorcyclist was taken to Basildon and Thurrock Hospital after a serious collision at the Rayleigh Spur Roundabout on the A130, prompting a large response from ambulance crews, Essex Police and the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance. The roundabout remains closed while traffic conditions have begun to improve, and no information has been released regarding potential arrests.

Northey Island in Essex will appear in Countryfile as part of Anita Rani’s new East Coast Road Trip, highlighting conservation efforts to protect endangered bird species and innovative measures to preserve saltmarsh from erosion. The episode covers the sinking of decommissioned Thames barges to create protective habitats and features volunteers safeguarding ringed plover nests. The island’s historical significance, including its link to the Battle of Maldon, is noted, and future episodes may feature Walton-on-the-Naze. The programme airs on 5 July and will also be available on BBC iPlayer.

Two men in their forties, Bobby Watson of Waltham Abbey and Tony Goldsmith of Enfield, have been charged with three counts of rape each following an alleged attack on an 18-year-old woman at a Southsea address on June 24. Both have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to appear at Portsmouth Magistrates' Court. Police state they are conducting thorough inquiries to establish the full circumstances of the incident.

Rhys Matcham, 34, of Barnston, has been charged under the Hunting Act 2004 after allegedly hunting a wild mammal with dogs in Ashdon. The charge follows an Essex Police Rural Engagement Team investigation that began after a fallow deer was reportedly killed in a field off Bartlow Road on January 21, 2026. Matcham is due to appear before Colchester magistrates on August 4, 2026.

Essex Police’s dispersal order covering parts of Southend, including the seafront, shopping centres and railway stations, remains in force until 6:39pm on Friday 31 July. The order allows officers to direct individuals or groups likely to cause anti-social behaviour to leave the designated area under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. Police said the measure targets disruptive large groups and does not restrict members of the public who are behaving normally; failing to comply with a direction is an arrestable offence.