Concerns about a woman on a bridge led to a main road being closed for four hours.

The woman was later arrested on suspicion of causing a public nuisance, police said.

She was spotted on a bridge over the A35 Dorchester bypass between the Monkeys Jump roundabout and the Stadium roundabout last night, prompting calls to the emergency services.

A spokesman for Dorset Police said: "Dorset Police was called at 6.40pm on Monday, June 22 to a report raising concern for the welfare of a woman on a bridge over the A35 between the Monkeys Jump roundabout and the Stadium roundabout in Dorchester.

"Officers attended and closed the road to ensure the safety of the woman and other road users.

"The woman was brought to safety at around 10.45pm and the road was reopened.

"The woman, aged 46 and of Dorchester, was arrested on suspicion of causing a public nuisance. She is currently assisting officers with their enquiries."

The spokesman added: "We would like to thank motorists for their patience and understanding during the road closures."