EMERGENCY services closed one of North Yorkshire’s main roads when a lorry caught fire, causing chaos for motorists.

The articulated lorry was believed to have been carrying items including tyres and paint when it caught fire just before 5am this morning (Wednesday, May 29) on the A64 between Malton and York.

It is believed the driver managed to uncouple the trailer from the truck, but the trailer was totally destroyed by the flames.

Morning commuters encountered major disruption on the A64 as the road was closed in both directions until just after lunchtime.

Diversions were put in place via small rural roads through the Ryedale countryside. Fire crews from Malton managed to put out the blaze by about 11.45am.

When the route reopened, temporary traffic lights were put in place on the eastbound carriageway so the road could be resurfaced after it melted in the fire.