Suspected drunk driver arrested after lorry overturns on A303

The A303 has been closed between the A350 at Chicklade and the B3092 at Mere since 7.15am on Saturday, February 21, after a HGV carrying fruit and vegetables struck the nearside barrier before coming to rest on its side, blocking both lanes. At 2.45pm, Wiltshire Police confirmed that officers arrested man on suspicion of drink driving following this road traffic collision. A spokesperson added: "The road is likely to be closed for a number of hours before the vehicle is recovered.

"There were no reported serious injuries but the driver was initially taken to hospital as a precaution. He is currently in police custody." Diversion routes were put in place via the A350 and B3081.

Visit A National Highways spokesperson noted that the lorry and a "substantial section" of the nearside barrier were damaged as a result of the collision, and a large spillage of diesel and mud spread across the carriageway. They added on Saturday afternoon: "Crews have now completed all clear-up and safety work needed ahead of recovery.

"The diesel spill has been treated using specialist materials, the mud and debris have been fully cleared, and the lorry's load of fruit and vegetables has been removed from the carriageway. "Engineers have also inspected the damaged roadside barrier. "The barrier has been straightened, made safe, and a coned-off section has been put in place so that full repairs can be carried out at a later date without delaying the reopening of the road.

"These steps have ensured the area is safe and ready for the next stage of the operation. "Specialist recovery teams are now working to right and remove the overturned lorry. "Because the vehicle is on its side and was carrying a full load, it must be stabilised and lifted carefully using heavy recovery equipment.

"This process takes time to ensure the lorry can be moved safely without causing further damage.

"Once the vehicle has been lifted and removed, final safety checks will be carried out on the road surface to confirm it remains safe for traffic."

After this work was carried out, the road fully reopened at around 3.25pm.