THE A59 near York has finally re-opened, five hours after a crash in which three people were injured.

The Yorkshire Ambulance Service said it took one patient to Leeds General Infirmary and two patients to York Hospital after the crash, which happened near Poppleton at about 5.30am.

A spokeswoman said one person suffered an open fracture and a second had pelvic and back pain, while the third was 'walking wounded.

North Yorkshire Police said the collision involved a Micra, a BMW and an HGV and injuries were not believed to be life threatening.

A spokeswoman said anyone with information should phone 101 and ask for the force control room, quoting reference number 0035 of 9 December.

An officer tweeted at 10.30am that the road had now re-opened.