THE A66 eastbound is closed at Middlesbrough after a lorry shed its load.

The accident happened prior to the Hartington interchange, near to the Metz bridge and Sainsbury’s, where the lorry struck the bridge underneath Hartington roundabout.

Traffic travelling from Hartington Road can now only join the west bound carriageway of the A66. Those travelling east bound along the A66 can continue their journey with a short detour over the interchange. At this time the west bound carriageway is unaffected.

The road is expected to be closed for some time as police and the local authority inspect the bridge to ensure that it remains safe for the public.

Drivers are asked to avoid the area as there will be some traffic disruption.