A BABY boy has died and another child has been seriously injured after they were attacked by a dog.

Emergency services were called to an address in Harwich Road, Colchester, at 3.10pm on Thursday.

The boy who was wounded was left with "life-changing injuries", Essex Police said.

A woman was also taken to hospital with minor injuries after being bitten by the dog, whose breed is unknown.

Chief Inspector Elliot Judge said: "This is a tragic incident that Essex Police is investigating.

"Specially trained officers are providing support to the family at this difficult time."

Officers removed the dog from the property after the incident.

Will Quince, MP for Colchester, spoke of his sorrow at the incident, tweeting: "So sad to hear of the death of a baby in a dog attack in Colchester.

"My thoughts and prayers are with his brother now at Colchester Hospital."

A neighbour, who did not want to be named but was at home at the time of the incident, said: "The whole community is in shock. It's all very upsetting. You are caught off guard with these things.

"I am very upset about it all. My children saw it (the aftermath) and are very upset.

"We suddenly saw police cars at the house and the fact that it was two children is very upsetting. The little baby couldn't have done anything. It's just so sad.

"I didn't know the family well but you look out of the window and recognise your neighbours. I just can't believe it."