POLICE are continuing to urge motorists to avoid the A59 despite the major road being partially reopened after a three-car crash earlier today today.

The road was closed for hours near Kirk Hammerton following the crash and subsequent vehicle fire, which happened at about 1.50pm.

Fire crews from Acomb and Knaresborough used foam, water and two types of fire extinguisher to deal with the blaze which gutted a Peugeot and all but gutted a Citroen.

Although traffic is now being allowed onto the route, it is slow going and police are urging motorists to use the A64 instead which is reported clear of problems.

A policeman said nobody had been injured in the crash, but the road had been closed in both directions until the fire was out.

He added that the road surface was checked to make sure it was safe after all three vehicles had been removed..