ROAD users are being warned to expect an ‘abnormal load’ on the A303 and A338 towards Tidworth this week.

A 34-metre load carrying a gantry crane is being delivered to a military establishment just outside the town on Thursday afternoon, officers say.

It is due to enter Wiltshire via the A303 at around 2pm, exiting at Parkhouse Cross before heading north on the A338 to Tidworth.

As well as the 34-metre load, the convoy will involve associated private and police escort vehicles.

Police say that due to its length, the load will be both slow moving and have the potential to cause additional congestion at locations where roadworks are already scheduled.

Oncoming traffic may be required to pull in and wait for the convoy to pass.

Wherever possible, disruption will be kept to a minimum although both hauliers and motorists are asked to please be patient should they come across the load.

Anyone travelling over this period on time critical matters should allow sufficient additional time for their journey.

Police escorting resources are being provided by officers, paid for by the haulier at no cost to the public.