One person has been taken to hospital after a serious crash closed both sides of the A1(M) through County Durham today (Friday, May 31). 

Two cars crashed on the southbound carriageway just past 3am this morning, and the road is expected to remain shut for hours as police officers carry out crash investigation work. 

The ambulance service has said they took one person to hospital from the scene. 

A spokesperson for North East Ambulance Service said: "We received a call at 03.22am today (May 31) for a road traffic collision on the A1 southbound carriageway between Chester-le-Street and Durham.

The Northern Echo:

"We dispatched three paramedic crews, a doctor, a paramedic duty officer and our hazardous area response teams to the scene. One patient was taken to hospital."

Earlier this morning, Durham Constabulary issued a statement. A spokesperson for the force said: "Officers are currently at the scene of a serious collision on the A1(M).

"As a result, the road has been closed in both directions between junction 62 at Carrville and 63 at Chester-le-Street."

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"The road is expected to remain closed for several hours while emergency services work at the scene.

"Drivers are asked to find alternative routes and avoid the area. We will provide further updates in due course."

National Highways said: "Drivers in County Durham are advised the A1(M) is expected to remain closed throughout this morning (31 May) following a serious collision.

"Severe delays are expected as the road is closed in both directions between junctions 63 (Blind Lane) and 62 (Carrville).

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"National Highways and emergency services were called to the incident involving two cars shortly before 3:30am. Durham Police remain on scene to carry out collision investigation work.

"Delays are likely on approach to the closure and diversion routes, with repairs on the A1 southbound between junctions 66 and 65 also likely to add to congestion.

"Anyone planning to travel in the area is strongly advised to allow plenty of extra time. Drivers may wish to find alternative routes, avoid the area or delay their journeys if at all possible."