A woman has been taken to hospital after a multi-vehicle crash closed a busy route near a popular shopping centre.

The A2042 Avenue Jacques Faucheux in Ashford was blocked as police, paramedics and fire crews responded to the incident.

The collision happened on the stretch heading out of town, before the Flanders Field roundabout.

Traffic built up in the area, close to the Ashford Designer Outlet, following the incident shortly before 1pm.

A police spokesman said: “We were called at 12.22pm today to a collision involving three cars in Romney Marsh Road, Ashford.

“Officers and paramedics attended the scene where a woman was treated for injuries that are not described as life-threatening.

“She is being taken to hospital for further medical attention.

“One lane is currently closed while arrangements are made for the recovery of the vehicles.”

It is understood the road had cleared at around 3pm.