A GAS company has said it is investigating an alleged leak after residents reported smelling gas in Colchester.

The smell is said to have been picked up on by residents in the CO4 and CO7 postcode area of the city, as well as the CO1 area.

Cadent has said it is aware of the smell in the areas and has launched an investigation into the issue.

A spokesman for the gas firm said: "At this time, the gas smell in Colchester is still being investigated by our emergency team.

"We are aware of a smell in the CO4 and CO7 postcodes.

"The engineers investigating are doing their best to inform residents of both areas whilst resolving the incident.

"If you are smelling gas in the area, it is advised you report it to the gas emergency line on 0800 111 999.

"The more the engineers are aware of, the quicker they can resolve the issue."

The Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has also said it has received a "high number of calls" regrading the "strong smell", but has said the issue is "further to the east" and is being blown over by the wind.

A spokesman said: "Our Control Room has received a high number of calls regarding a strong smell of gas in east Colchester (CO4).

"The issue is further to the east of Colchester and residents can smell it due to the wind direction. Cadent is in attendance."