ONE person was cut free from wreckage by fire fighters following an accident near Ingatestone.

The smash, which involved a van and a car, happened on Stock Lane on Monday morning, at the junction for Buttsbury and Ingatestone Road.

Black ice on the road is thought to have contributed in part to the cause of the collision.

Fire crews were called at 7.25am and used specialist equipment to cut free one person who was trapped.

The road, which was partially blocked, was cleared shortly before 8.30pm and two people were taken to  hospital.

The ambulance service sent a rapid response vehicle, paramedic officer and two ambulances to Ingatestone Road.

A spokesperson for EEAST who attended the scene said: "The incident involved a car and van, and there was black ice on the road which made conditions very dangerous.

"Three people were treated at the scene with no obvious injuries. On further assessment crews conveyed two casualties to hospital as a precaution."