THE Isle of Sheppey was brought to a virtual standstill today after a toppled pylon blocked the only route on and off the island.

Roads either side of the Kingsferry Bridge were gridlocked during the morning rush hour as traffic tried to pass the wooden pole near Cowstead Corner on the A249 Sheppey Way.

At first, it appeared it had blown over in strong winds overnight, but police later confirmed that the damage had been caused by a car.

A Ford Ka had collided with the pylon at about 2.45am, trapping the driver and cutting power to about 30 homes near Cowstead Corner. A live electricity cable lay across the car and road. The power was isolated before firefighters cut the man free. He was taken to Medway Maritime Hospital with minor injuries.

The road was still blocked several hours later, causing chaos for people trying to get on and off the Island, including school buses.

At Minster College, the school day was abandoned and more than 1,000 pupils sent home because of the combined effect of the traffic delays and flooding overnight caused by torrential rain.

EDF Energy linesman worked at the scene of the crash throughout the morning to repair the damaged poles and restore the overhead lines.

One half of the road remained closed and traffic lights were in operation, causing lengthy tailbacks for much of the day.

The work was not due to be completed until 6pm - well into the evening rush hour.