Police are investigating a serious collision that closed a major County Durham road for five hours on Friday (January 27) morning. 

Emergency services were called to the A167 on Friday morning after reports of a serious collision. 

Read more: A167 Aycliffe crash: Road remains closed as police officers at scene

Officers were seen investigating the incident for five hours after the road was initially closed - with specialist police officers condoning off the scene. 

Here is what we know about the incident so far:

What has happened and when?

A serious collision took place this morning at around 6am on the A167 near the Aycliffe service station. 

Access to the A-road, along with access to the A1(M) was blocked. 

Where did the incident happen?

The collision took place at the lights leading towards the A167 service station and towards the A1(M).

However, details of the incident are scarce. 

Was there any congestion?

Yes - before there was a diversion in place, traffic was queued for 45 minutes.

What has the emergency service said? 

At the time, few details were known about the collision - but Durham Police have put out a statement that highlights that the road was closed. 

A spokesperson for the police force said at the time: "We are currently dealing with a collision on the A167 between J59 of the A1(M) at Darlington and the roundabout with St Andrew’s Way, in Newton Aycliffe.

The Northern Echo: Police cordon off the A167 near Aycliffe service station. Picture: NORTHERN ECHOPolice cordon off the A167 near Aycliffe service station. Picture: NORTHERN ECHO (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

"The road is closed in both directions and likely to be so for some time. There is also no access to the services.

"Motorists are advised to avoid the area and find alternative routes.

"Thank you for your cooperation and patience."

The Northern Echo: Police cordon off the A167 near Aycliffe service station. Picture: NORTHERN ECHOPolice cordon off the A167 near Aycliffe service station. Picture: NORTHERN ECHO (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

A North East Ambulance Service spokesperson added: "We received a call at 5.38am this morning to reports of a road traffic incident on the A167 near Newton Aycliffe. We dispatched two ambulance crews and one clinical team leader."

How long were police at the scene?

Police were at the scene for around five hours - with the road opening at around 11.15am.

Is the road now open?

Yes - road policing officers reopened the route at around 11.15am.