Tyne Tees Newcastle

Both lanes on the A1 southbound are now following broken down vehicle near Dunston Road.

One lane remains closed northbound, so motorists are advised to use an alternative route if possible.

There is currently heavy traffic on the A1 in Gateshead and Newcastle, police say.

A broken down vehicle is currently blocking one lane southbound, just before Dunston Road.

One lane remains closed northbound at Blaydon Bridge due to damage caused to the barrier in a collision this morning.

Officers are in the area to help keep traffic disruption to a minimum.

Newcastle United have confirmed that John Carver will take the role of head coach until the end of the 2014/15 season.

Here are five things you may not know about him:

• Carver was born in Newcastle and once played for Gateshead.
• He was also caretaker manager at St James' Park during 2004.
• He's was head coach of Toronto FC during 2008.
• During his time in the MLS he was charged $750 for openly criticising the standard of refereeing.
• Though his head coach role is only until the end of summer Carver is contracted with Newcastle until 2020.

Former Assistant Manager John Carver has been appointed Newcastle United head coach until the end of the season.

Carver said: "This is a proud day for me.

"I have worked with, and learnt from, the best manager that this football club has had in Sir Bobby Robson. I know what this Club means to this city and its people. I believe in my players and the staff I have around me.

"I am confident that we can deliver exciting successful football and look forward with relish to my role as head coach of this great football club."

There are reports that Newcastle United will confirm John Carver as head coach until the end of the season.

The club have not officially confirmed the appointment but it is thought confirmation will come today, January 26

Police have thanked motorists for their patience after officers had to close part of the A19 northbound for several hours this morning.

There was a collision just after 3am, involving a white Volvo heavy goods vehicle and a white Mercedes Sprinter van.

It happened just after the A689 turnoff, almost parallel to the Clipper Tea Factory on Wynyard Business Park. Both drivers were taken by ambulance to the University Hospital of North Tees to be seen for what are currently believed to be minor injuries.

The A19 north was fully closed for a stretch just before the A689, with traffic being diverted and the road was reopened at 9.30am.

Anyone who witnessed the collision and who has not yet spoken to police is asked to contact Cleveland Police on the non-emergency number 101.

Police are appealing for information following an aggravated burglary in Newcastle.

Three men wearing ski masks, armed with knives, entered an address in Eastgarth, Newbiggin Hall, just before 1am on January 26. They threatened a resident and left the scene in a white van.

Nothing was stolen during the incident and there were no injuries.

Police are asking for anyone who was in the area at the time to contact them on 101.

There's congestion southbound on the A19. Expect delays.