Hampshire Constabulary is appealing for witnesses and information following a fatal incident on the A3(M) near Bedhampton this morning.

At 7.22am today (Thursday, December 22), police received reports that a woman had fallen from the bridge on Purbrook Way, between junctions 4 and 3.

A woman in her 50s from Hayling Island was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

The part of the road between junctions 4 and 3 was closed in both directions. At around 2pm the southbound carriageway was reopened.

The northbound carriageway is still closed and will remain so for at least the next couple of hours.

Hampshire Constabulary has apologised for any inconvenience but hope that people will understand they need to investigate thoroughly and will work with their partners to ensure closures are lifted as soon as possible.

Officers are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding what happened, and they are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Were you driving in the area at the time? Did you see a woman on Purbrook Way between 7.15am and 7.20am today?

Anyone who thinks they have any information that may help enquiries should get in touch by calling 101, quoting 44220513133.

Witnesses can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org