THE Dorset Way was closed in both directions this afternoon after police received reports of a man sitting in a 'dangerous position' on a footbridge.

Officers attended to speak to the man, closing the busy road both ways between the Mannings Heath Roundabout and the Tower Park Roundabout to keep drivers safe.

Fortunately, the man decided voluntarily to come back to safety.

A spokesperson from Dorset Police said: "We had a number of calls at about 3.40pm reporting a man was in a dangerous position on a footbridge over the Dorset Way.

"He moved to a safe position voluntarily after speaking to a member of the public. Officers also spoke to the man. No injuries have been reported and no arrests have been made."

The road reopened shortly before 5pm.