A MOTORCYCLIST has been rushed to hospital with leg injuries following a collision with a van.

The incident happened near the Galleys corner roundabout shortly after 2.15pm and an Essex Air Ambulance was scrambled to the scene.

The southbound B1018 has been closed, causing long delays. 

An East of England Ambulance spokesman said: "We were called at 2.19pm to a collision between a motorbike and a car on the B1018 near Braintree. 

"We sent several resources including an ambulance and Essex Air Ambulance. 

"The motorcyclist, a man believed to be in his 40s, sustained leg injuries and was taken to Broomfield Hospital by land ambulance."

A police spokesman said: "Police attended to discover a Yamaha YBR motorbike and a white Ivaco panel van had been in collision.

"The road has been closed while emergency services including the air ambulance deal with the incident."