A WOMAN died at the wheel of her Ford Focus saloon after leaving the road and colliding with a tree.

Police have launched an investigation to discover the cause of the accident which happened in Sponden Lane, Sandhurst, near Tunbridge Wells, at about 1.40pm on Bank Holiday Monday.

The road, a relatively quiet country lane, was closed to traffic for about three hours following the incident while a crash investigation unit examined the scene.

Insp Paul Sellwood said: "We have not yet been able to contact all the deceased relatives and we won't be releasing her name yet."

No one else was in the vehicle and no other cars were involved in the accident. Police would like to hear from any witnesses either to the crash itself or who may have seen the Ford Focus shortly beforehand. Conatct Ashford police station on 01622 690690.

The coroner is being informed and an inquest will be held.