Motorists faced lengthy delays during rush hour this morning after loose cattle 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 sight of cattle running up the hard shoulder.

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

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

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

Traffic later cleared and cars were travelling normally - but it is not yet known what happened to the loose cattle.