A lorry driver died this morning in a four vehicle collision on the A228 at Hoo.

Two lorries and two cars were involved in the accident at 6.50am on Wednesday near the junction with Ropers Lane.

It is understood the male driver was behind the wheel of a lorry which collided with the rear of another HGV vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the first lorry was uninjured. Two cars - a SEAT and a BMW, were also involved in the crash with only minor injuries reported. Three people - all male - were taken to hospital as a precaution.

Police closed both carriageways of the Ratcliffe Highway, the main road into and out of the Isle of Grain.

Motorists are still being advised to avoid the area and take alternative routes. The road remained partially closed at 2.50pm.

A Kent Air Ambulance was initially at the scene, but those injured were taken to hospital by land based crews.

Callers to today's kmfm breakfast show say the second lorry appeared to have pushed the other truck through the central reservation.

Fire fighters used hydraulic cutting equipment in an attempt to rescue the stricken driver.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue said: "The cab had been squashed and the driver was trapped.

"It was difficult to gain access to the cab but we were able to cut away an opening and safely get the driver onto a stretcher.

Police want to speak to the occupants of a black Saab who may have witnessed the collision.

Anyone with information should contact Kent Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538.