The A42 near Ashby was closed on the southbound carriageway between Junctions 12, for Packington, and 11, Appleby Magna last night (Tuesday).

National Highways East Midlands says that this was due to 'clear up works following a collision which resulted in a large spillage of offal'.

The incident happened at around 6pm - and the route was not opened until the early hours of this morning (Wednesday).

National Highways East Midlands reported "The A42 in Leicestershire is closed southbound between J12 (Packington) and J11 M42/A444 near (Appleby Magna) due to a collision which has resulted in a spillage of offal from a Heavy Goods Vehicle.

"National Highways Traffic Officers and Service Providers are on the scene to assist with traffic management.

"Further specialist resources are also now on the scene to assist with carriageway clear-up works."

But the carriageway was re-opened in time for the morning rush hour.

National Highways East Midlands posted on its X account and said: "All lanes are now open on the #A42 southbound between J12 near #Packington and #M42#A444 #ApplebyMagna. 

"The earlier collision which resulted in a large spillage has now been cleared".