A fallen tree is causing chaos in Christchurch this evening.

The tree fell close to the Fountain Roundabout on the Christchurch bypass, covering two lanes.

It has now been slightly moved so that just one lane is now blocked.

Although reports initially suggested it had fallen through the windscreen of a car, this is now thought to be incorrect.

Cars are gridlocked throughout the town, including Barrack Road and Fairmile Road, which are "solid" according to reports.

A diversion will be put in place by police, and the local authority is on its way to remove the tree from the road.

A Dorset Police spokesperson said officers were called at 5.14pm by a member of the public.

He added: "It is complete and utter chaos for drivers."

Fairmile Road is severely congested, partly due to the temporary traffic lights on the railway bridge in Bargates.