TWO low-loaders caused traffic chaos on the A19 yesterday when they came across an unexpected low bridge - and had no option but to reverse one-and-a-half miles back down one of the region's busiest roads.

The drivers crept along the road for about an hour-and-a-half after finding their way blocked by a bridge.

Teesside's road system confused the escort company accompanying two huge metal containers on low loaders from Leicester to Hartlepool docks. The convoy mistakenly found itself on the A19 and was confronted by a low bridge at Wolviston, near Stockton.

"They had planned the route carefully, but whoever was in charge of the escort seemingly took the wrong turning," said Acting Sergeant Nick Sutton.

"He was probably planning to go across the old roundabout to the old A19, which would have been clear ahead, but he has taken the new A19, which caused the problems."

There was no alternative for police but to close the northbound A19 so the two loads could reverse back the way they had come to turn off safely on to the A1027.

Acting Sgt Sutton said: "It was slower than walking pace. It tied up seven police officers for one-and-a-half hours because of all the junctions we had to close off."

"When I got there, which was shortly afterwards, there was a tail- back for a-mile-and-a-half, but it probably built to three miles.

"Luckily it was Sunday traffic which is generally light, but just closing off one lane on the A19 can cause real difficulties."