ONE of the region's busiest roads was blocked for several hours yesterday, after two lorries collided and crossed the central reservation.

Serious congestion built up after the accident occurred on the A168, linking the A19 to the A1, in North Yorkshire, at about 3.15pm.

Police said three lorries were involved in the accident, which blocked both carriageways at Asenby, near Thirsk.

The two lorries that are thought to have collided came to rest in the northbound carriageway, leaving a third wagon to bring traffic heading in the other direction to a standstill.

One lorry driver was taken to Northallerton's Friarage Hospital with minor injuries.

Traffic to and from the northern part of the county, as well as Teesside, was expected to be diverted through the village of Topcliffe, until 10pm, last night