TRAFFIC chaos as a result of a multi-vehicle crash on the A12 may lead to pupils missing vital exams, a school has reported.

The crash, reportedly involving three lorries, took place shortly after 7.30am near Spring Lane and has left parts of the A12 closed.

The Stanway School reported a burst water main has added to the traffic woes.

Follow our live blog here: Updates as A12 closed near Colchester after lorry incident

The school Tweeted: "Due to traffic congestion on the A12 and burst water main in Colchester, we recognize that some Year 11 students may struggle to arrive at school on time for their exam.

"We will delay the start and put arrangements in place to ensure no student is penalized by the circumstances."

A statement has now been provided by Essex Police.

A spokesman said: "We are at the scene of a serious collision on the southbound A12 near Colchester.

"Our officers were called shortly after 7.30am today to reports of a collision involving three vehicles.

"We would like to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time and saw the collision or anyone who has dash cam footage."