Children among casualties after tree falls in park

Two children have been taken to hospital with serious injuries after a tree fell in a seaside park.

Essex Police said there were "a number of casualties" after the "serious incident" at Chalkwell Park in Southend-on-Sea.

The force was called shortly before 15:00 BST on Saturday and was at the scene along with ambulance and fire service teams.

"We would please ask the public to avoid this area where possible while this work continues," police said in a statement on social media.

An East of England Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "Two children were transported by road to Southend University Hospital.

"A further three children were later transported by road to the same hospital with minor injuries."

They added that "six ambulances, three ambulance officer vehicles, the London Air Ambulance and Kent Air Ambulance were sent to the scene".

The MP for Southend West and Leigh, David Burton-Sampson, posted on X to say: "My thoughts are with those affected."

He added: "I am hearing about a worrying incident in Chalkwell Park and I'm awaiting further details.

"In the meantime, please avoid speculation until full details are released."