AN accident involving a lorry and Land Rover Discovery sparked a road closure on the A338 on Thursday morning.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the incident was apparently caused by a motorist who was reported to have carried out a series of dangerous ovetaking maneouvres while travelling northbound at the notorious Bickton Bends.

The motorist who drove off from the scene, forced numerous other vehicles to swerve and take evasive action. A section of the carriageway between Ringwood and Fordingbridge was closed just before 7am, with a large quantity of oil on the road.

The road was closed until Thursday evening as resurfacing work had to be carried out.

Pc Martin Vine of Hampshire Police said the lorry had had its fuel tank ripped off and around 80 gallons of diesel spilling onto the road.

"We have no description of the offending vehicle and I would like any witnesses to come forward."

He praised the actions of the lorry and Land Rover drivers and added: "Fortunately no-one was hurt. This could have been so much worse."

Due to large fuel spillage, part of the road may have to be resurfaced and could be closed for the rest of the day.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Totton Road Policing Unit on 0845 0454545 or 101.