A Southend man has been left seriously injured after what is believed to have been a hit-and-run accident.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the crash which happened in the early hours of yesterday morning in Canvey.

The man, who has not been named but is believed to be in his 20s, is in a serious condition in Southend Hospital.

He has already undergone surgery and is expected to have another operation today.

A police spokeswoman said the events surrounding the accident were not clear.

It appears the man was walking with a friend, following a drinking session, along Furtherwick Road, Canvey, at around 2am.

The police spokeswoman added: "The two friends who had been out drinking crossed over Furtherwick Road near Barclays Bank to the area where the Oysterfleet Hotel is situated. One of the friends turned round to see the other man lying in the road.

"The friend heard nothing. He does recall seeing a vehicle but can recall no description. "

The man has been left suffering with a broken left arm, left leg, fractured cheekbone, broken teeth and fractured jaw. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Surgeons at Southend Hospital have confirmed the injuries are consistent with a serious impact.

Police are not releasing any further details of the man but have confirmed he is from Southend and was staying with friends on Canvey.

Any witnesses to the accident are asked to call PC Duncan Horner on 01268 775533.

A man was killed and his son was seriously injured when their car left the road at the Five Bells roundabout at the junction with High Road, Fobbing, and ploughed into a crash barrier. The accident happened at around 2.40am on Saturday.

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