HGV drivers are continuing to flout a ban on lorries through a small County Durham village – even though a bridge landslide has closed the road, splitting the community in two.

Residents in Ovington, near Barnard Castle, say they see or hear at least one wagon a day attempting to pass through the village.

In the latest incident, an Eddie Stobart truck was forced into a tricky manoevre, reversing down a narrow lane at the side of the Four Alls pub in an effort to turn round after the driver discovered he could not get through.

A spokesman for hauliers apologised for any inconvenience caused, but confirmed the driver had ignored the “road closed” signs, believing he could reach his destination, in nearby Winston, via Ovington.

He said the driver had not passed any weight restriction signs highlighting the 7.5 tonne limit on the road through the village.

“He thought he would be okay to carry on, but unfortunately that was not the case,” said the spokesman.

Residents are adamant that HGVs ignoring the weight restriction were at least partly to blame for landslides that caused part of Ovington bridge to give way late last year.

An initial landslip on November 28 resulted in a temporary closure, but the bridge reopened as a single lane controlled by traffic lights.

However, a second landslip, on December 23, has resulted in the road remaining closed to all vehicles ever since.

The damaged section of bridge is the same as that where strengthening work was carried out in February 2012.

Ian Guest, vice-chairman of Ovington parish Council, said better signs pinpointing exactly where the road is closed might deter some of those wagon drivers still determined to try their luck through the village.

“They get so far and then you can hear them reversing. There are between six and 10 a week.”

Brian Buckley, Durham County Council's strategic highways manager, said: “We are extremely concerned if any vehicles are ignoring the road closure notices and would reiterate that while site investigations continue, all motorists should follow the clearly marked diversions for the safety of everyone.”