A lorry hit some scaffolding in the centre of Dorchester blocking a road and causing traffic chaos.

It is understood the vehicle was turning from High East Street into Icen Way when it collided with a scaffolding tower erected at the side of a building.

Alastair Clark, who lives nearby, said it appeared the lorry dragged part of the scaffolding along the road before it came to a halt.

He said he understood no-one was on the scaffolding when it was struck.

Dorset Echo:

Picture: Alastair Clark

Police and firefighters were alerted at just before 5pm yesterday.

Part of High East Street was blocked by the lorry and police put up a cordon and had to direct traffic at the scene.

The obstruction caused long delays through the town at a busy time of day. It has now been all cleared.

Mr Clark said: "The scaffolding is up at the Balti Express building on the corner. It appears the lorry turned into the side road and hit the scaffolding, dragging it along the road. Luckily, I don't think anyone was working on it at the time.

"When I went past the scaffolding company were at the scene. They had shored up the scaffolding and some guys were up there. They were dismantling it piece by piece.

"The lorry was sticking out from the corner and blocking part of High East Street so only one lane of traffic could proceed at a time. It was causing terrible traffic jams in the town."

Dorset Echo:

Picture: Alastair Clark

Mr Clark added: "They seemed to have it all under control and were making the area safe. I'm glad no-one was hurt."

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said a firecrew from Poole attended the scene to make it safe as local teams were tied up on another incident.