POLICE are investigating after a man died when a Royal Mail van slipped down an embankment and crashed near Newport this morning (Saturday).

The Isle of Wight Police alongside the Fire and Rescue Service and ambulance crews were called to the Downs Road at 7.38am.

A 40-year-old man from Southampton has died and police are now appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the events leading up to the crash.

A spokesperson for the police said: "We were called to the road when a Royal Mail van had 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.

"In addition, if you have dashcam footage of the vehicle and/or the collision please call us."