A police officer has died after he was hit by a car while dealing with a broken-down vehicle.

Police constable Gary Veal, 36, suffered serious head and internal injuries in the accident on Saturday on the A12 at Colchester, Essex.

The married father oftwo young girls had been a police officer in Essex for 11 years, said an Essex Police spokesman.

Fellow officers described him as "enthusiastic, experienced and well-regarded".

Assistant Chief Constable of Essex Police, John Broughton, said: "Our thoughts are with Pc Veal's family at this sad time.

"Essex Police has lost a dedicated officer who gave his life helping others."

Pc Veal was on foot laying cones and portable lights near the vehicle on the dual carriageway when he was hit by the car.

He was wearing a reflective coat, white traffic officer's hat and carrying a flashing blue light.

The male driver of the car was not injured.

No-one has been reported for prosecution, said the spokesman.