POLICE have launched an investigation following an accident in which a Southampton man was killed.

Officers were called to The Downs Road on the Isle of Wight at 7.38am yesterday following reports of a single vehicle accident.

A police spokesman said: "A Royal Mail van left the road and went down a steep embankment, just west of Newport Shute.

"The occupant, a man aged 40, from Southampton, died as a result.

"His next of kin have been informed and they are being supported by specialist officers.

"Officers are investigating the exact circumstances of the collision and would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the collision, or saw the vehicle driving in the area prior to it."

Police are appealing for anyone with dash-cam footage of collision to call them on 101.