UPDATE: The road has now reopened but police have revealed a man was killed in the crash. For more information, press here.

A STRETCH of the a busy Somerset A-road running from Shepton Mallet towards Frome is currently closed in both directions.

A collision on the A361 between Slait Hill (Dean) and Haygrove Lane Junction (Leighton) which happened on Wednesday evening (April 17) forced the main road to close.

When the road was initially closed yesterday evening, a spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: "The A361 is closed in both directions while we respond to a collision at East Cranmore this evening (Wednesday, April 17).

"The road is shut between the Nunney Catch roundabout and at Tansey.

"Motorists are advised to seek an alternative route at this time."

Somerset Council's live traffic monitoring service currently states that although delays are likely, traffic is coping well so far.

There is not yet any timetable for when the stretch of key A-road will be open again.

Avon and Somerset Police have been contacted for further comment.