A spillage of animal carcasses forced the closure of a main route in both directions.

Police were called to the A20 Ashford Road, near Bearsted, shortly before 9.30am after a lorry shed part of its load, believed to be animal remains.

The Maidstone-bound carriageway has now reopened between Eyhorne Street, near the Great Danes Hotel, and a roundabout for Junction 8 of the M20.

Two eyewitnesses said the lorry had dropped "tonnes of animal remains" over the road, but police have not yet confirmed the vehicle's contents.

Traffic was earlier said to be queuing in the area due to the spillage. Motorists were diverted through Hollingbourne.