DEADLY black ice on one of the region's most exposed cross-country routes led to several minor accidents in the early hours of Christmas Day.

The A66 was closed in both directions between Bowes, in County Durham, and Cumbria.

Inspector Chris Hedley, of Durham Police, said both carriageways would remain closed until gritting vehicles removed the hazard.

He said there had been ‘several accidents in quick succession’ but did not give further details.

The Pennine section of the A66, which links the North-East and Cumbria, is vulnerable to the elements and is often closed during periods of inclement weather.

Insp Hedley advised motorists across the region to drive with care.