Motorists were left puzzled and confused, and faced lengthy delays during rush hour this morning after loose cows found their way on to the carriageway.

Cars travelling on the A1(M) between Chester-Le-Street and Carrville, Durham after 8am this morning (May 15) were met with unexpected travellers in the form of cows running up the hard shoulder.

For a while, lanes were partially blocked and traffic was nearly at a standstill as the cows made their way along the hard shoulder, narrowly missing cars.

The Northern Echo: Cow on the A1(M).Cow on the A1(M). (Image: STEVE W)


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One eyewitness claimed he is "not sure" where they came from as pictures show one tagged cow running northbound towards traffic.

Durham Constabulary were contacted for more information but confirmed they did not attend.

Traffic has since cleared and cars are travelling normally - but it is not yet known what happened to the loose cows.