THE A338 Spur Road was closed northbound following a fatal crash.

Emergency services are currently at the scene of the incident on the main road out of Bournemouth.

Police have closed the road at Blackwater following the crash further up the road before Ashley Heath.

Traffic is being diverted onto the B3073 Christchurch Road towards Hurn, with vehicles able to use Matchams Lane to get to the A31.

Dorset Echo: Major Dorset route closed as police deal with 'serious' accident Picture: Jason LewisMajor Dorset route closed as police deal with 'serious' accident Picture: Jason Lewis

Pictures taken earlier show a Dorset Police car blocking off the northbound on-slip at Blackwater, while a second marked vehicle is positioned in the middle of the carriageway to ensure traffic complies with the road closure.

Very sadly, police have issued a statement confirming that a male pedestrian aged in his 30s has died following a crash involving a petrol tanker.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

Police Sergeant Lee Savage, of the traffic unit, said: “My thoughts go out to the family and friends at this difficult time.

“We are appealing for any witnesses to the incident or anyone who may have captured relevant dashcam footage.

“I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who saw a white Vauxhall Insignia parked in a layby on this stretch of road or a person in or around the vehicle.

“Finally, we are aware that the road closure greatly impacts the traffic in this area. I would like to reassure motorists that this is absolutely necessary to allow emergency services to safely respond to the incident and thoroughly examine the scene.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email at scit@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 25:191.

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.

Traffic reports suggest the scene has now been cleared and the northbound carriageway has reopened.