Overturned lorry closes Charles Watts Way in Hedge End

Both directions of the A334 Charles Watts Way in Hedge End were shut due to the over turned lorry, although all lanes bar one reopened for a period.

The incident caused major disruption for motorists coming to and from junction seven of the M27.

The accident happened at the roundabout with Tollbar Way near to Sainsbury's, shortly before 6.40am.

The driver managed to escape from the cab of the lorry with only minor cuts and bruises.

It is believed the lorry's load shifted while going around the roundabout, causing it to topple.

A lamppost was also knocked over as the lorry toppled on to its side, meaning emergency services could not risk touching the vehicle until the electricity was turned off.

Traffic heading from Botley and Hedge End to the M27 was affected by the incident, although the road was partially reopened to traffic shortly before 7.30am, before closing completely again around 8.45am.

That was on Turnpike Way to all traffic heading towards the motorway, which was being redirected through the Herald Industrial Estate.

Meanwhile, traffic from West End was being redirected through the Sainsbury's car park towards the motorway, due to a closure of Tollbar Way at the M&S delivery entrance roundabout.

The operation to pick the remove the vehicle began at 10.30am and the lorry was finally righted shortly after 11.20am.

The road finally reopened fully shortly after 1pm. Police are still investigating the cause of the crash.

Representatives of Pitter, the owner of the lorry, did not want to comment at the scene.