AN overturned lorry caused the closure of the M1 during the morning rush-hour yesterday (Wednesday) causing huge tailbacks in roads around St Albans. Police closed the northbound carriageway of the motorway between junctions eight and nine after the accid

AN overturned lorry caused the closure of the M1 during the morning rush-hour yesterday (Wednesday) causing huge tailbacks in roads around St Albans.

Police closed the northbound carriageway of the motorway between junctions eight and nine after the accident at around 1.55am.

Motorists were diverted from junction eight, along the A414 Breakspear Way in Hemel Hempstead, the B487 Redbourn Road, on to the A5183 Dunstable Road, rejoining the motorway at junction nine. But many made their way through Leverstock Green and Chiswell Green was also jammed.

The motorway remained closed until midday to enable the lorry to be recovered. The carriageway also needed cleaning because of a fuel spill. The lorry driver was unhurt.