Lorry crash causes motorway closure in North Yorkshire
The A1 has been closed following an overturned lorry
One of the key routes in North Yorkshire has been closed in both directions after a lorry crossed the central reservation and overturned, shedding its load.
National Highways said the closure of the A1M motorway in North Yorkshire is "expected to be protracted and in place for a considerable time" following an incident involving a truck and a refuse wagon.
The collision happened on a stretch between junction 51 at Leeming Bar and Junction 52 at Catterick shortly after 7am on Friday.
National Highways said the "road remains closed for extensive recovery and clean-up work", adding that extensive barrier repairs will be needed.
Pictures taken at the scene show one flat-bed HGV straddling the damaged central barrier and another lorry on its side across the carriageway.
National Highways said: "One of the vehicles has crossed over the carriageway, overturned and come to rest on its side. There is a significant amount of debris across both carriageways.
"North Yorkshire Police, Fire, Ambulance Services and National Highways Traffic Officers are on scene.
"The closure is expected to be protracted and in place for a considerable time today.
"Once recovery of the vehicles is complete, the road will re-open but a lane closure will be required in both directions to allow the central reservation to be repaired/replaced.
"This work is expected to last throughout tonight and in to Saturday 11th February."
The agency has set up a range of diversion routes for drivers heading in both directions.
North Yorkshire Police urged motorists to avoid the area.