TEMPERS flared at a meeting as the police came under fire after claims they caused unnecessary traffic chaos in Weymouth.

Weymouth and Portland councillor David Mannings questioned why the police had to close a lengthy section of Preston Road to traffic and pedestrians for so long following a fatal accident last month.

He used the Weymouth and Portland Public Transport Forum to grill Sergeant Steve Westhead.

Coun Mannings, who represents Preston, claimed the police could have at least opened one section of pavement so elderly people did not have to take a long detour.

And he said it took some time before the road at Warmwell Cross roundabout was closed, which added to traffic problems in Preston.

Sgt Westhead, who was first on the scene of the accident and administered resuscitation to the man involved, explained the police actions on the day and said officers had to preserve the scene as best they could.

He added that units from Dorchester were requested to close the road at Warmwell but were delayed.

Coun Peter Farrell, a member of the Dorset Police Authority, stepped in to defend Sgt Westhead. He said: "I object to this officer being harangued in this way. It's not the job of this committee to criticise this officer so please stop it."

Coun Farrell added: "This is a front-line officer who really should be out on the streets. If the police are to be invited here they should know why they're coming. If the forum is to go forward in any way members should table their questions in advance."