The southbound A12 was closed last night at Brentwood in Essex, causing delays for drivers heading to London.

The carriageway was closed to traffic following a fatal accident earlier this afternoon.

A police spokesman said a lorry driver appeared to have lost control of his vehicle and struck the central reservation. No other vehicles were involved and the male driver was certified dead at the scene.

A spokesman said: “Drivers travelling southbound should leave the A12 at junction 12, Brentwood, and follow the A1023 to rejoin the A12 or join the M25 at the Brook Street roundabout.

“Road users are advised to plan their journeys before they set out, and to leave extra time if they are going to be affected by this work.”