A21 is closed after tree is blown over on to power cables

Police received more than a dozen calls after high winds blew the tree over, leaving it teetering dangerously on the cables.

Emergency services arrived on the scene, near to the junction with the B2244, just after 2.15pm.

The road was closed in both directions between Marley Lane and the John’s Cross roundabout and traffic was diverted.

A tree surgeon was also called to help make the scene safe.

A spokesperson for UK Power Networks said: “UK Power Networks received a call at about 3pm on November 21 to say that a tree had fallen on to overhead power lines on the A21 near Whatlington.

“Engineers were dispatched immediately and, at 4pm, had to isolate electricity supplies to seven customers in order to remove the tree and restring the lines.

“Supplies were restored at 5.05pm with the road reopened shortly afterwards.”

There were no reports of any injuries.