STRONG winds have caused disruption to travel in the North East.

The Swan House roundabout and a section of Pilgrim Street were closed for over an hour after concerns were raised about a large billboard overlooking the road.

The canvas, which carried an advertisement for Vodafone, had ripped apart after swinging in the wind for several hours in the morning.

Police and fire crews were called to the scene to divert traffic and pedestrians.

The board was removed from the hoarding shortly after 1pm and the road was reopened. The scaffolding was thought not to be dangerous, according to a police spokesman.

Commuters are also facing delays on the A1 after a HGV lorry blew over.

Traffic was at a standstill on the A1 southbound near to junction 63 after the accident at around 12.15pm.

The driver wasn't injured.

Drivers were being asked to avoid the road and use A167 south as alternative route from junction 63.

Police advised the public to take extra care in high winds.

Motorists should maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and take particular care around motorcyclists and cyclist, they said in a statement.

Pedestrians should also watch out for debris blown into their path.