FIREFIGHTERS had to rescue a man from a river following concerns for his welfare.

A large emergency services response flocked to the scene in East Hill, Colchester, amid concerns as the man entered the water.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said firefighters were called to the scene shortly after 1.50pm following reports of a person in the river.

A spokeswoman said: “Crews worked quickly to help the person to safety and they were left in the care of the ambulance service by 2:30pm.”

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Essex Police says it was first called to the scene in East Hill at 1.50pm after it had received similar reports.

A spokesman said: “Our officers provided assistance, and the man was left in the care of paramedics from the ambulance service.”

A witness told the Gazette there was a lot of activity at the site towards the bottom of East Hill, with all three emergency services in attendance.

The ambulance service has been contacted for comment.