Louise Parry
BBC News, Essex
Stuart Woodward/BBC
A witness said up to 50 people tried to lift the tree off the children who were trapped
A seven-year-old child has died and a six-year-old is critically injured after a tree collapsed in a park in Southend-on-Sea.
Essex Police said investigations were continuing at Chalkwell Park after part of the tree fell shortly before 15: 00 BST on Saturday.
A witness who was playing cricket nearby described how “40 to 50 people” including his team tried to lift the tree off the trapped children.
Ishan Madan, 39, said: “The tree had snapped and I think there were four children, the fifth one was slightly further away. Two were rescued easily but unfortunately the other two girls were stuck under this massive tree.”
Five children were taken to hospital, three with minor injuries, but a seven-year-old girl died in hospital.
Assistant Chief Constable Lucy Morris said: “Updates will be provided on the condition of the little girl who remains in hospital.
“I know many will be thinking of her today, and she is in the right place, receiving urgent and around-the-clock care surrounded by her family.
“Sadly, her condition is still very serious at this time.”
Last night, police said specialist officers were supporting the families of those affected, while support was also being provided to emergency service responders.
A dedicated contact portal has also been set up by Essex Police for witnesses who might not yet have spoken to officers.
Stuart Woodward/BBC
Flowers have also been laid at the park following the accident, and a special area has been marked in the park for the laying of flowers and tribu
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