THREE people suffered serious injuries in a multiple car accident on the A19, four miles north of Thirsk, when a tanker crossed the central reservation.

Both carriageways on the section of road were closed overnight between the junction with the A684 and the junction with the A168 at South Kilvington.

The northbound lane opened at 7.30am today, and the southbound about half an hour later, causing tailbacks.

North Yorkshire police said the accident happened at 8.30 last night when a tanker crossed the central reservation while travelling north and overturned on the southbound carriageway.

The tanker then struck a car, the driver of which became trapped and had to be cut out by firefighters.

Three other cars were involved, and a number of people were taken to nearby hospitals. Three people were detained with serious injuries.

Anyone with information or who witnessed the accident should contact PC Andy Langford on 01609 783131.

Updated: 11:02 Monday, September 24, 2001