A MAJOR Hampshire road closed early this morning by a fallen tree has now reopened.

The A36 Salisbury Road was shut both ways while the Highways Agency cleared the large tree near West Wellow which came down at about 4am amid storm force winds.

The tree came down on a power cable, but it is unclear at the moment whether any residents have been hit with a power cut.

The Met Offices say strong winds and heavy rain is set to hit Hampshire this morning as commuters return to work after the Christmas break.

Ferry firm Red Funnell is also warning of possible delays on its Southampton to Cowes route.