THREE people were taken to hospital after a multi-vehicle crash on the A12, which closed the road for two hours. 

The A12 southbound was closed between the J29 Crown Interchange and J27 Cymbeline Way from about 9am until 11am, causing traffic chaos and delays throughout Colchester.

The crash happened near the Colchester Jobserve Community Stadium and saw three ambulances and two fire engines in attendance. 

Reports of the incident first started at around 8.10am.

Traffic was back to normal by midday. 

Chaos - what the road looked like around 10.15amChaos - what the road looked like around 10.15am (Image: AA)

The ambulance service confirmed three people were taken to hospital for further treatment. 

An East of England Ambulance Service spokesman said: "We were called at 8.31am with reports of a collision southbound on the A12 in Colchester.

"We sent three ambulances and an ambulance officer.

"Three people were taken to Colchester General Hospital for further care."

Essex Fire and Rescue confirmed no one was trapped in their vehicles. 

An Essex County Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: “Firefighters were called to a road traffic collision on the A12 between Junction 28-27 at 8.31am.

“On arrival, crews reported there had been a collision involving four vehicles. Nobody was trapped inside their vehicles and crews worked to make the scene safe by 9am.”

Motorway - some of the slow-moving traffic on the A12Motorway - some of the slow-moving traffic on the A12 (Image: Brandon Penny)

Essex Police are appealing for any information about the incident, including CCTV, dash cam or other footage. 

A spokesman said: "We were called to reports of a multi-vehicle collision on the southbound A12 near to the football stadium shortly after 8.35am today (Thursday, 27 June 27).

"Part of the central reservation was also damaged.

"The road has since re-opened but partner agencies are still dealing with the incident.

"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 290 of 27 June."

Anyone with information can submit a report on the force's website or use their online Live Chat service on weekdays between 10am and 9pm.

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

Alternatively, call the police on 101.

To make an anonymous report, contact Crimestoppers by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555111.