The driver of lorry which overturned this morning, killing a passenger, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

The 49-year-old is being questioned after the refuse lorry owned by council contractor Kier crashed through a barrier wall on the eastbound stretch of the A406 North Circular, near Hall Lane in Chingford, at 8.35am.

A 54-year-old passenger in the lorry died at the scene.

Three other men were taken to hospital for treatment to minor injuries.

No other vehicles are believed to have been involved in the crash.

A Kier spokeswoman said: "We are working closely with the police to support their enquiry and to fully understand the circumstances of this tragic incident.

"We are arranging counselling and ensuring support is on hand for anyone who needs it. Our thoughts are with our employee’s family and friends at this very sad time."

Waltham Forest council leader Chris Robbins has confirmed the men travelling in the lorry were working on behalf of the council. 

He said: "Waltham Forest council is aware of a tragic incident involving one of our refuse trucks resulting in a fatality on the A406 this morning.

"This is a terrible situation and our thoughts and sympathies  are with the individual’s family.

"We understand the person who died is an employee of our contractor Kier. The incident is currently being investigated by the police and we will work with the Police and Kier to understand more about this situation."

Any witnesses are asked to call the serious collision investigation unit set up at Chadwell Heath on 020 8597 4874.

Road closures remain in place on the eastbound section of the A406 and motorists are advised to avoid the area with tailbacks as far as Staples Corner.