A BLAZE which led to major congestion on the A64 in North Yorkshire is believed to have been started accidentally, according to the fire service.

On Wednesday black smoke was seen drifting near the busy major road near York, when a fire broke out at an industrial unit adjacent to the road, opposite the Highwayman Café.

Police urged drivers to avoid the road as fire crews battled to contain the blaze and heavy traffic built up in the area throughout rush hour.

Six fire engines from York, Malton, Tadcaster and Harrogate had been called to the scene at about 4pm near the village of Stockton-on-the-Forest, along with an aerial ladder and water bowser.

North Yorkshire Fire Service said the fire was under control by 5.45pm and crews remained at the scene to dampen down until 8pm.

They continued to visit to the scene throughout the evening and the following day and dampened down any hot spots.

The fire had broken out in a business unit which contained two workshops.

The units both suffered severe fire, heat and smoke damage according to the fire service.

A spokesperson for the organisation stated on Thursday: “Crews have conducted a revisit this morning, and will continue to revisit during today.

"No cause has been established at this time, but it is not believed to be suspicious.”