A SHOUT for help has sparked a police search in Rayleigh.

The police helicopter can be seen circling the area around Rayleigh Golf Club, and officers are currently carrying out enquiries on foot.

A member of the public called police just before 3.25pm to report hearing someone shouting for help from trees and bushes surrounding the golf course, in Hullbridge Road.

Officers have not yet found anyone in distress, but are continuing with their search.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "Police have attended the Hullbridge Road area of Rayleigh following a report just before 3.25pm today that a person could be heard shouting for help in an area of dense undergrowth close to Rayleigh Golf Club.

"Officers have attended the area to speak to people and carry out a search, and the police helicopter has also been mobilised to assist."