A man has died after two people were hit by a lorry on the hard shoulder of the M25.

Police were called to the clockwise carriageway not far from the Dartford Crossing just before 4am.

Officers say the pedestrians were standing between Junction 29 for Upminster and Junction 30 for Dartford and Thurrock.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman added: “Officers attended along with London Ambulance Service paramedics and treated two men.

“Despite their best efforts one of the men died at the scene.

“Road closures are in place as police carry out inquiries. No arrests have been made.”

The other man remains in hospital, but his condition is unknown.

National Highways says the route remains closed while police investigate.

Drivers are being told to expect 45 minutes of delays on approach to the area and that they should allow for extra time.

Any witnesses or those with dashcam footage are asked to call 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting CAD 1299/08SEP.