A convoy of tractors has been spotted on a main road in Dorset and is believed to be on its way to Southampton.

The convoy has been seen heading from Bridport to Dorchester this morning along the A35, causing delays to motorists as the tractors are driving slowly in a bid to raise awareness for their cause. 

It is understood that this may be a part of a nationwide protest across the country today including targeting supermarket supply chains in a bid for the Government to make a u-turn on changes to its inheritance tax policy. 

The convoy is believed to be on its way to Southampton. 

Inheritance tax changes for farming businesses, which limit the 100 per cent relief for farms to only the first £1 million of combined agricultural and business property. 

For anything above that, landowners will pay a 20 per cent tax rate, rather than the standard 40 per cent rate of inheritance tax (IHT) applied to other land and property. 

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: "Dorset Police is aware of this planned activity.

"We respect people’s right to lawful protest and where possible we work with organisers to facilitate people’s rights to demonstrate peacefully, however we have a duty to ensure those involved act within the law, prevent any public disorder and ensure the local community can go about their lawful activities."

The NFU has been approached for comment.