Overturned livestock lorry on M1

The M1 eastbound and westbound near Lurgan has now re-opened, after 40 cattle overturned on the main carriageway.

It was closed for most of yesterday (Friday 16th). The closure was in place from junction 12 at Birches off the Dungannon Road junction and junction 13, known as Beatties junction, near the Black Island Road turn-off.

It was due to an overturned livestock lorry.

Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson said: "At approximately 5.30am, we received a report that a lorry containing approximately 40 cattle had overturned on the main carriageway.

“Officers along with other emergency services attended the scene and closed the road to ensure the safety of the public and welfare of the animals.

“One man, the driver of the lorry, sustained minor injuries in the collision and was taken to hospital for treatment.

“A vet, along with specially trained officers attended the scene and humanely euthanised a number cattle that had been badly injured.

“The road has since been cleared, the remaining animals have been removed and the lorry recovered.

“I would like to thank the public for their patience while we carried out this complex recovery operation.

“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision or to anyone who may have footage that could assist with enquiries to contact police on 101 quoting reference 179 16/05/25.”

A report can be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or you can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/