SEVERE disruption was caused on various major roads this morning due to a large funeral procession.

The procession, thought to be for a person in the travelling community, moved along the London-bound track of the A12 before heading along the A130 into Basildon from 11am.

Essex Police warned drivers to expect traffic disruption.

This morning, a spokesman said: "A large funeral procession is expected to take place from approximately 11am this morning.

"The procession is expected to move along the London-bound track of the A12 before heading along the A130 into Basildon.

"Once in Basildon the procession is expected to move into and out of Laindon and into and out of Pitsea. Motorists are advised to avoid these roads where possible from 11am onwards.

"Essex Police has made preparations to ensure the procession is facilitated safely and with as minimal disruption to the public as possible."

This afternoon, the spokesman thanked motorists for their patience.

They said: "Essex Police would like to thank the county’s motorists for their patience and co-operation following disruption to several major and local roads in parts of Essex today.

"A large funeral procession moved through the county – along major routes including the A12, A130 and A127 and local roads in Basildon – as it made its way to Basildon. We know motorists along this route may have experienced some significant disruption to their journey and every effort was made to minimise this. 

"Essex Police assisted in ensuring the procession was facilitated safely and with as minimal disruption to the public as possible, with regular updates provided through our social media channels.

"Essex Police would like to thank affected motorists once again for their patience and co-operation."