Stuck HGV leads to closure of Cliviger lane

The articulated truck was driven down the narrow Greencliffe Lane in Cliviger on Wednesday – despite warning signs saying the road was unsuitable for HGVs.

But the lorry became trapped after the driver tried to navigate a sharp bend on the single track road in the village.

Police were forced to close the lane at 8-40am and two salvage vehicles were drafted in as attempts were made to recover the stricken wagon.

Mrs Valerie Brown, of Cliviger, who saw events unfolding, said: “I saw a blue sign at the junction saying the road was closed. I was shocked because I didn’t know what was going on.

“Then I looked from the top and saw the lorry. It was quite a big operation and they closed the road at about 8-30am and it was not until midday when the road was opened again.

“I think maybe his sat-nav. sent him the wrong way and down the lane. Obviously the driver didn’t know there was such a narrow bend at the top.

“The road is a bit of a rat run in the morning and at tea time for people going to and from Hebden Bridge but I have never seen anything bigger than a white van on there.

“The lane is obviously not suitable for long vehicles.”

The lorry was eventually freed from the narrow lane and police managed to reopen the road after midday.