SAFETY is the priority in incidents like the alleged arson on the M3 last month, says Hampshire's police and crime commissioner.

The incident in which 'flammable material' was allegedly thrown from motorway bridge caused 11 hours of travel chaos on Saturday, September 23.

Michael Lane said: "I know that many people had a ‘nightmare’ journey on the M3 a week ago.

"This particular incident had high risk factors and involved a major incident response. And at the top of the priorities was keeping people safe.

"I commend those who made the scene safe, collected evidence, continued the investigation, after the road was eventually reopened.

"I would like to thank the public for their patience, which will have been sorely tested on this occasion. As always when reviewing all incidents I will be supporting partners in learning lessons from this."

Both Highways England and Hampshire Constabulary faced criticism after drivers became stuck on the motorway past the last turn off before the investigation site.

A 17-year-old boy from Winchester has been charged with arson with intent to endanger life, causing danger to road users, burglary, blackmail with menaces and theft and is due to attend Winchester Crown Court on October 11.