AN OVERTURNED horsebox forced a major Hampshire road to close for several hours.

The A34 northbound has now reopened following the incidentnear Three Maids Hill at around 11.15am.

Initially delays were reported of around 20 minutes due to the blockage, but officers had to close the carriageway between the A272 and A303 Bullington Cross to allow for the incident to be cleared. Repairs were also needed to the central reservation barriers.

Officers at the scene tweeted: "The road may remain shut for a couple of hours while this is dealt with, so please avoid."

A diversion was put in place via the A272.

Police said the horse was safely removed from the carriageway, although it is not clear whether those inside the vehicle have been injured.