MOTORISTS were stuck for hours on the A31 last night (Thursday). 

Both the east and westbound carriageways on the A31, which is a mjor route connecting Hampshire and Dorset.  

The incident was declared a "major incident" and saw police working with Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and South Central Ambulance Service to assess people at the scene and evacuate those with health problems or those requiring medical treatment.

It affected a  12 mile stretch east and westbound on the A31 between the Ashley Heath roundabout and J1 of the M27.

The road was re-opened at 6am this morning. 

Police this morning said: "The A31 is moving again now but we are urging drivers to avoid the area while they look to clear the trapped traffic and recover abandoned vehicles.

A police spokesman said: "If your car is abandoned on the A31 please call us on 101 and we will advise the best course of action. Officers are patrolling the main carriageway and side roads to offer assistance to drivers.

"Hampshire Constabulary has been part of a multi-agency response with all our partners, including the military, who were with us at our command suite and working alongside us throughout the night.

"We have also had support from our team of volunteers, people with 4x4 vehicles, tractor owners and others who have been so important and we would like to thank them for their help.

"An amber weather warning for snow, freezing rain and high winds is still in place across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight so once again, we advise against all non-essential travel."