Police have closed a road after a man was seen throwing tools towards traffic.

Officers on the ground and a helicopter unit are currently attempting to calm the distressed man, who threw objects into the A104 Epping New Road.

The man, who parked his van between the Robin Hood roundabout and Ranger's Road in Chingford, contacted the police himself and was said to be severely distressed following what is thought to be a domestic dispute.

Police have now closed the area as they try to deal with the situation.

A police spokesman said: “We were contacted by a man shortly after midday, who a short time later, began throwing a number of tools forcing police to close the road.

“Essex police is liaising with the man’s family.”

The man, who is in his 40s and from the Chingford area, is believed to be speaking to officers about the circumstances which led to his actions.

An air unit is being used to monitor his movements.