Call for safety barrier after overturned lorry closes cross-border road overnight

There's a call for a safety barrier to be installed on a busy cross-border route, between Scotland and England, after an overturned tanker led to the closure of the road overnight.

A stretch of the A697 between New Moor House crossroads and the Bridge of Aln remains shut tonight (Saturday) - almost 48 hours after the crash, which led to a large quantity of ethanol being spilt, in the early hours of Friday morning.

Efforts were being made to drain the HGV of the chemical before an attempt was made to lift it from an embankment, where it came to a rest, at the side of the road.

Northumbria Police revealed it received a report at 1.40am on Friday that a vehicle had overturned on a bend in the road.

It's understood the driver escaped injury, but diversions are in place while emergency services make the scene safe.

Reacting to the announcement, one local said: "Barriers needed on that stretch."

Another added: "Maybe a post saying going through Edlingham isn’t advisable!"

And a third said: "Along with signage at the Bridge of Aln saying residents' access only, and dog field and fishery open for business."

READ MORE: A1 in Berwickshire to close for 20 nights for resurfacing

A statement from Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, released at 4.30pm on Saturday, said: "Unfortunately the road between the New Moor House Crossroads and the Bridge of Aln still remains closed.

"Diversions remain in place. We thank you for your patience at this time."

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