A broken level crossing barrier caused a major headache for commuters in Haxby today.

The barrier, near to the York outer ring road, came down just after 8.30am - and stuck in that position. Nearby roadworks also contributed to the problems.

Motorists without local knowledge were left with no way of getting through. Tailbacks built up right through the village.

One driver said: "It was total madness. Thankfully I live in the area and so I know a few short cuts, but those that don't were completely stuck."

A Railtrack spokeswoman confirmed the barrier had broken down at 8.35am and was being operated manually by 9.10am.

She added: "We don't know the cause yet, and it is being investigated. Our level crossing barriers all operate on a fail-safe mechanism to ensure there is no danger to road or rail traffic, and that is what has happened here. We can only offer our apologies for the delays."

AA Roadwatch spokeswoman Denise Raven said: "The motorists were patient and good-humoured about it."