Crash closes southbound carriageway of the A189 in Northumberland

Police are this afternoon (Monday) dealing with a collision on the spine road between High Pit and the Moor Farm roundabout.

At 1.10pm, a spokesman said: "The southbound carriage is currently closed and diversions are in place. Please avoid the area if possible."

Reports from other motorists who have passed the scene, just past the turn-off to the Northumbria Emergency Care Hospital, say the accident looks 'really bad'.

The crash will add to the delays for the high volume of traffic heading south after the Easter weekend, with the A1 at Felton also reportedly at a standstill.

UPDATE 2.50pm: The road has partially reopened, although one southbound lane remains closed. The A189 slip roads aound the incident are also all open.