Traffic police today appealed for witnesses following a three-car accident which closed the A128 at Bulphan for more several hours.

There were early reports that someone was trapped after the crash.

The county's emergency helicopter was joined by three ground crews, including two ambulances from Grays, and police set up diversions around the area.

PC David Howard, of Brentwood traffic unit, said: "We had to take some caution with the casualties as obviously they were our main priority."

He told how motorists had stopped nearby to give their version of what happened but hoped any other witnesses would come forward.

All the injured were taken to Basildon Hospital.

Driver Frederick Abson, 68, from Romford, suffered a leg injury and his 67-year-old wife Pamela had multiple fractures and leg injuries.

He was described as comfortable while Mrs Abson was in the hospital's intensive therapy unit and said to be stable this morning.

Another driver, Ram Abeywardana, 51, of Uplands Drive, Billericay, had to be cut free from his vehicle.

H was airlifted to hospital where he was found to have suffered bruising but was later allowed home.

Driver Kim Foster, of Romford, was said to be unhurt.

Anyone with information should contact PC Howard at Brentwood traffic unit on 01277 201478.

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