POLICE have confirmed the closure of the A12 this morning was due to concerns for the welfare of a man.

Officers were called to concerns for the welfare of a man near to the A12 in West Bergholt, shortly after 4am this morning.

A spokesperson at the force said: "We attended and a man was sectioned under the Mental Health Act 1983.

"He was taken to a safe place and has been left in the care of medical professionals."

A number of roads in the area were closed, including the A12, for about one hour and 40 minutes while police dealt with the incident.

The spokesman added: "We would like to thank motorists for their patience."

Highways England urged drivers to plan ahead for their journey at about 6am this morning following the incident as police were at the scene. 

It confirmed the road reopened at 8am this morning.