Bradfield locals chip in to remove fallen oak tree

The oak tree came down during stormy weather that hit the region on Monday

Police have thanked a community that rallied to remove a tree after it fell across a road in "challenging weather".

The oak tree came down in Heath Road, Bradfield, Essex, just before 14:00 BST on Monday, during strong gusts.

Residents and tradespeople joined forces to clear the road and help the emergency services, Essex Police said.

PC Thomas Raes said: "There was a real sense of community spirit, with offers of help from everyone in the vicinity."

Because of the windy weather, all emergency services were responding to high demand across the county, the force added.

Locals chipped in to help remove the tree before the road was reopened

The road reopened to traffic at 17:30, the police said.

• Trains cancelled after weather damages lines

"I want to thank the public who came to help clear the road making it safe for everyone in such a short period of time," PC Raes added.

"They pulled together with officers and got the job done in no time at all, despite some challenging weather.

"The road was reopened quite quickly, thanks to their determination to help."