A MAJOR road to the west of Ledbury will be closed until at least tomorrow (Friday) amid reports of an overturned lorry that had been carrying thousands of chickens.

The A49 is closed due to a crash between Hereford and Leominster at Dinmore with West Mercia Police confirming the target is to reopen in the morning.

Many of the birds are thought to be dead or injured with police and a vet on the scene.

West Midlands Ambulance Service said one unit had been sent to reports of an overturned lorry but it was stood down before arrival due to no injuries being sustained.

Highways England has issued an update on the diversion routes.

Drivers travelling southbound are advised to follow the solid circle diversion route:

• At the junction of the A49/A417, turn left on to the A417 eastbound.

• Continue along the A417 to its junction with the A4103.

• Turn right on to the A4103 westbound.

• Continue along A4103 westbound to its roundabout with the A49.

• Join the A49 and continue your journey.

Road users travelling northbound are advised to follow the solid triangle diversion route:

• At the roundabout junction of A49/A4103 take the exit to the A4103 eastbound.

• Continue along the A4103 eastbound to its junction with the A417

• Turn left along the A417 and continue to its junction with the A49 to continue your journey.

"Delays are likely on the approach to this closure, with additional journey times also expected on diversion routes," it said.