ROYAL Mail says it is working with police after the death of one of its employees in a car crash at the weekend.

A Southampton man, aged in his 40s, died after his Royal Mail van went down an embankment.

The crash happened on the Downs Road, near Newport Shute on the Isle of Wight, at about 7.40am on Saturday.

In a statement, Royal Mail said: “We were deeply saddened to learn about this incident.

"Our thoughts are with our colleague’s family and friends at this difficult time.

"We are currently helping police with their investigations.”

Isle of Wight police and fire crews were called to the scene of the crash and officers have appealed for witnesses.

A police statement 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.