A MAN who was trapped in a hole in a North Yorkshire street has been released, the fire service has confirmed.

The man had been buried up to his waist in tarmac and clay since 9am this morning when North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene in Rossett Green Lane, Harrogate.

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A spokeswoman said a workman or contractor had become trapped in the hole, and the air ambulance and paramedics were also at the scene, along with gas and electricity suppliers who were working to isolate supplies in the area during the rescue attempt.

She said: "The incident involves a trench which has collapsed trapping one person under clay and tarmac.

"Crews remain on the scene at this time due to the complex nature of the rescue and agencies are working to together to free the individual."

The spokeswoman said the man was "trapped by the legs from the hips down", and the incident was ongoing.

As of 2pm this afternoon fire crews from Harrogate, Tadcaster and Knaresborough reamained at the scene, along with specialist teams from West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Northern Powergird confirmed that they have cut the electricity supply to nearby properties whilst the rescue operation is ongoing and they thanked customers for their patience.

North Yorkshire Police are also at the scene to redirect traffic, and have urged motorists to avoid the area.

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service issued a short statement at 3.30pm saying that the individual has been released and is being treated by the ambulance service.

It is not yet known what the extent of his injuries is.