Explosion: Motorway Closed After Blast Report

Explosion: Motorway Closed After Blast Report

Police have closed the A1 motorway at Catterick in North Yorkshire after a member of Army staff reported hearing an explosion in the early hours.

Both slip roads to the area are shut and diversions are in place, with motorists warned to avoid the area.

There are no reports of any injuries or damage.

Police said a "credible source" at Marne Barracks had reported the sound of an explosion at 3am - but no one in Catterick village has backed up the report.

"The search remains focused on the area outside of the barracks and the area adjacent to the A1," said a police statement.

"Although at this stage, it cannot be ruled out that it has occurred within the boundary of the barracks."

Four houses within the garrison had been evacuated, said an Army spokesman, but those people have now been allowed to return.

Catterick is home to the Army's Northern Super Garrison, covering 20,000 acres of training land.

Every infantry soldier undergoes phase one and two training at the sprawling site.

North Yorkshire Police said the closure was a precaution while they investigated the area around the road.

"All security precautions must be taken to protect members of the public until we find out exactly what has occurred," said the force.

Six miles of motorway are affected and the road is likely to stay shut until about 5.30pm, according to the Highways Agency.

Its website said the closure was between Junction 51 at Leeming Bar and Junction 56 at Barton.

Newcastle United football fans were expected to be among those affected as they headed south to play West Ham.

The club said it had notified the London club that its travelling supporters could have trouble getting to the match.


Sky News