UPDATE: Just before midday on December 3, Traffic Scotland said that the road had reopened to all traffic.

THE main road connecting Skye with mainland Scotland has been closed after a fatal crash, with motorists urged to “avoid the area”.

Police Scotland’s Highlands and Islands division warned that the A87 has been closed at Breakish, which is about five miles onto the island from the Skye Bridge.

It comes after a one-car crash that happened at around 10.05pm on Monday, December 2.

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The driver of the car, a 39-year-old man, was taken to Broadford Hospital but died a short time later. Police said his family has been made aware.

Two passengers in the car, a man and a woman, were also taken to hospital.

The force said that there was a diversion in place, but that it was not suitable for HGVs.

Traffic Scotland said the road was closed in both directions and warned people to expect "lengthy" delays.

A statement said: “The A87 is closed following a one car crash near Breakish on Skye that happened around 10.05pm on Monday, 2 December.

“Emergency services attended and the car driver, a 39-year-old man, was taken to Broadford Hospital where he died a short time later. His next of kin are aware.

“Two passengers, a man and a woman, were also taken hospital to be checked over.

“Road users are advised to avoid the area. A local diversion is in place but it is not suitable for HGVs.”