Five children have been injured after a tree fell in a public park, with two children hospitalised with serious injuries.
Officers were called to reports of a tree falling in Chalkwell Park in Southend, at around 3pm on Saturday, Essex Police said.
“We remain on the scene of a serious incident at Chalkwell Park. Officers, alongside ambulance and fire service colleagues, are responding,” the force said.
“There have been a number of casualties and our work at the scene is ongoing.
“We would please ask the public to avoid this area where possible while this work continues.”
Two children were seriously injured at the incident, with a further three children taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
An East of England Ambulance Service spokesperson said: “We were called at 2.55pm to reports that a tree had fallen in Chalkwell Park in Chalkwell. Six ambulances, three ambulance officer vehicles, the London Air Ambulance and Kent Air Ambulance were sent to the scene.
“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.”
Footage showed an increased police presence around the perimeter of the park, which had no people in it, as cars drove by.
David Burton-Sampson, Labour MP for Southend West and Leigh, said: “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.
“My thoughts are with those affected.”
Labour & Co-op councillor for St Laurence ward Daniel Cowan said on social media: “I am aware that a serious incident has occurred in Chalkwell Park. My thoughts are with those affected.”
Chalkwell Park is a recreational ground that covers 27 hectares and contains a number of flower gardens, two children’s playgrounds, a skate park, and football, cricket, basketball and tennis grounds.
This is a breaking news story. More to follow.
