AN overturned lorry caused the closure of the M1 during the morning rush-hour today (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

AN overturned lorry caused the closure of the M1 during the morning rush-hour today (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 and rejoining the motorway at junction nine. But many made their way through Leverstock Green and other drivers left the motorway at junction seven and Chiswell Green was also jammed.

The motorway was expected to remain closed until midday to enable the lorry to be recovered. The carriageway needed cleaning because of a fuel spill and repairs might also be necessary.

The lorry driver was unhurt.