The A42 southbound was closed for around two hours today (Monday) near Ashby - with causing delays of up to 60 minutes for motorists.

Highways East Midlands reported that traffic had been stopped between Junction 12 (Packington) and Junction 11 (Appleby Magna) due to a collision.

One of the vehicles involved could not be moved and a recovery vehicle was requested.

However, no lanes could be opened as a fire engine had broken down - the other was blocked by a vehicle involved in the collision.

Highways East Midlands said that traffic remained held - with long queues back to the Flagstaff Island junction with the A511.

A social media post said: "If you're caught within the traffic, unfortunately, we're unable to get you moving at this time. 

"Heavy recovery is now on scene to recover the broken down fire engine which is blocking the road.

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"All emergency services are in attendance alongside National Highways Traffic Officers.

"Thank you for your continued patience."

But, just after 2pm, Highways East Midlands said: "Vehicles have now been recovered and we're hoping to re-open the road shortly."

That was followed by a post saying the route had re-opened, adding: "Thank you for your patience, please have a safe onward journey."

The National Highways website gives details of the diversion in place.

It says: "Diverted traffic is advised to follow the hollow circle diversion symbol.

• Exit the A42 southbound at J12 and take the first exit (left) off the roundabout onto the B5006 southbound.
• Continue southbound along the B5006 for approx.0.5 mile to the B5006/B4116 junction.
• Then turn left (south) on to the B4116 for approx.1 mile to the Leicester Road/Swepstone Road junction.
• Turn left on tot Leicester Road and immediately right back on to the B4116 Gallows Lane South (staggered junction).
• Continue southbound along the B4116 for approx.4.5 miles to the B4116/A444 mini roundabout junction at Twycross.
• At the mini roundabout turn right on to the A444 and continue northbound for approx. 3.5 miles passing through Appley Parva to the A42 junction 11. At the junction take the first exit off the roundabout and joining the M42."