A busy main road was sealed off following two crashes in little more than an hour.

Police were originally called to a one-vehicle collision involving a motorbike on the London-bound carriageway of the A299 Thanet Way, near Whitstable, at 6.10am today.

But while at the scene, a multi-car pile-up was reported further along the stretch close to the town just after 7.20am.

A police spokesman said: "Emergency services remain at the scene and the westbound carriageway is currently closed near the Dargate exit.

"Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes where possible."

The route has since been cleared.

Drivers were warned this morning to expect long delays in the area by Kent County Council's highways team.

Authority officials said: "There is very slow traffic on the approach from the junction with Clapham Hill.

"Expect long delays."