Police are investigating after a driver left the scene when a lorry overturned in Swanscombe.

Officers were called at around 6.30pm last night following reports a lorry had overturned in Craylands Lane.

The driver had left before police arrived and the road was closed to allow recovery of the vehicle and its load.

KCC Councillor for Swanscombe and Greenhithe Peter Harman told residents:"A 32 ton articulated lorry loaded with refuse from a firm in Manor Way overturned at the junction and the driver ran off leaving the vehicle.

"Kent Police and KCC Highways attended the scene and worked clearing the wreckage throughout the night until 6am, the vehicle was so badly damaged that it was removed in a number of pieces. Whilst removing the remains of the vehicle, at about 3am a Thames Water 12 inch underground water main began leaking badly, delaying work on removing the wreckage.

"Most of the wreckage has now been removed, and Thames Water are currently in charge of the site repairing the water main. They have 4 way traffic lights in use and vehicle delays will continue for some time. I will post an update when I get further information."

Police say inquiries are ongoing into the circumstances.

Kent Highways have also been approached for a comment.

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