POLICE have closed the A417 at East Hendred in both directions after a tanker spilt diesel all over the road.

The driver was trying to avoid an accident on the opposite side of the road when his vehicle skidded on debris.

The tanker fell on its side, breaking the fuel tank which then leaked its contents. The driver was unharmed.

Police closed the road, near Wantage, shortly after 4pm and drivers have faced severe delays this evening.

The initial accident, near the White Road junction, was between a Renault Master van and a Mercedes E320. Nobody was hurt.

Thames Valley Police spokesman Adam Fisher said the road should be open again at 8.15pm.