A van driver has died after hitting a lamppost in a town centre street this morning.

The fatal crash took place at 4.40am on Beltinge Road, as the motorist drove out of Herne Bay.

The street was shut while a heavy emergency service presence attended the scene, where the white Ford Transit van could be seen on its side.

Its driver, a 40-year-old from Sidcup, was pronounced dead at the scene.

A Kent Police spokesman said: "Officers from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit attended the incident and are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the collision or the vehicle involved beforehand.

"They are also appealing for anyone with dashcam footage to get in touch.

"Anyone who can help is encouraged to call the appeal line on 01622 798538 quoting reference KH/COJ/131/19 Alternatively email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk."

Read more: All the latest news from Herne Bay