A MAN in his 70s has died at the scene of a serious crash after "becoming unwell behind the wheel" in Thorpe Bay.

Police shut off Maplin Way for a number of hours today after reports of a single vehicle crash before 2pm this afternoon.

Emergency services attended and sadly, despite the best efforts of paramedics, a man in his 70s died at the scene.

At this stage police believe the man became unwell behind the wheel.

The road was closed for a number of hours but has now fully re-opened.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

"Please quote incident 0543 of 16 April.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday - excluding public holidays - between 10am and 9pm.

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."

The East of England Ambulance service has been contacted for comment.