DETECTIVES are appealing for witnesses after a person was spotted lying at the side of the A12 in Colchester.

Police received three calls from motorists concerned for the welfare of the person.

One report said the person was seen in the central reservation, another that someone was lying at the side of the road and a further report stating that someone was being helped into a small dark coloured car.

Det Sgt Gavin Watson, of Colchester CID, said police attended the scene, but no one was found.

He said: "The details are scant as the drivers were all driving and did not get a clear view.

“We are following up these reports but have no other information.

“Possibly that person may have been unwell and someone picked them up and took them to a safe place.

“We would like to hear from that driver or anyone else with any information."

Anyone who picked up a pedestrian on the road, at about 7.45pm on Saturday, is asked to call Colchester CID on 0300 333 4444.