The bridge in Finchingfield is currently shut after a lorry struck a funeral directors nearby.

Police closed The Causeway after the vehicle crashed into the side of G.W. Hardy and Son’s, which is situated next to the bridge, just after 10am this morning (October 27).

Witnesses said the lorry did not stop at the scene and Essex Police are investigating the incident.

It is currently unknown when the bridge will reopen.

The bridge has been under the spotlight after Essex County Council revealed plans to repair the bridge next year, which would close the bridge to traffic – a move which residents say will cut the village in half, risk lives and threaten businesses.