The Sheppey Crossing has reopened following a large fuel spill this morning.

The A249 heading from the Isle of Sheppey towards Sittingbourne and the M2 was shut after diesel from an HGV spilled out onto the road. The vehicle became stranded on the bridge.

Around 2pm, Highways England said they had removed the HGV, treated the road and were preparing to reopen the southbound carriageway. It reopened at 3pm.

Highways England tweeted to say: "Crews have worked to treat a diesel spill on A249 S/B caused by an incident earlier. Sheppey Crossing is now re-open. Thanks for your patience."

Drivers were diverted over the older Kingsferry Bridge and are advised that at the junction of the A2500, near Queenborough, the Cowstead roundabout, they should follow the black triangle diversion signs to join the B2231 Sheppey Way. They will then be able to rejoin the A249.

Earlier, a spokesman for Highways England said its staff were "working hard to recover the obstructing vehicle and to treat the road surface".

He added that they would re-open the Sheppey Crossing as soon as it was safe to do so.

At midday, the organisation said treatment of the fuel spill was "well underway".