A Gravesend man has died following this morning's crash on the A2 near Dartford.

The man, in his 40s, was driving a Nissan Micra which was involved in a collision with a taxi and three other cars in the early hours.

Seven people were also injured in the crash, one seriously, and were taken to both Darent Valley Hospital and Medway Maritime Hospital, with police left hunting a taxi driver who left the scene.

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Officers were called to the coast-bound carriageway between Leyton Cross and junction 2 of the M25 at 5.10am, to a report of a crash involving a Nissan Micra and a taxi.

When they arrived, crews realised a further three vehicles had collided.

Police are asking people to come forward with information and are also appealing for the occupants of 'a light coloured flat bed van' to get in contact with them.

It is believed they may have important information on the collision.

Insp Martin Stevens from the serious collision investigation unit said: "We know that were a number of vehicles travelling along this stretch of road at the time and I am now appealing to anyone who saw what happened and have yet to speak to police.

VIDEO: The A2 was still closed at midday following a serious crash. Ben Kennedy reports

"In particular I would like to identify the taxi driver and also a driver of a vehicle recovery lorry who we know passed the scene and I’m sure that the driver will have important information to help our investigation and would appeal for them to get in touch as quickly as possible."

Coast-bound traffic was diverted off of the A2 at the A2018 Shepherds Lane and drivers were warned to expect delays on local roads around Dartford.

London-bound traffic was also delayed by about 30 minutes, as drivers slowed down to look at the crash.

The road reopened at about 1.30pm

Anyone with any information is asked to call 01622 798538.