The notorious Bilbrough Top accident blackspot on the A64 near Tadcaster claimed more victims today.

Three people were taken to hospital after a three-car smash on the eastbound carriageway.

Police said a red Rover, either emerging onto the A64 from Bilbrough or travelling along the dual carriageway, was struck from behind by a Vauxhall Cavalier. The Cavalier then spun and hit a Honda Civic waiting in the central reservation.

Two elderly people who were trapped in the wreckage of the Rover were cut free by firefighters and taken by ambulance to York District Hospital with minor injuries, along with the Cavalier driver.

Traffic Constable Chris Redin, appealing for witnesses, said police had great difficulty putting down red chalk markings to indicate the position of vehicles because of the number of markings in place from previous accidents.

"I think it's fair to say that the history of this junction says all that needs to be said.

"We consider it extremely frustrating to have to re-visit the same accident scene over and over again."

Updated: 11:54 Wednesday, June 13, 2001