Three dead in crash on A9

It is believed one of the casualties was airlifted to hospital while the others were taken by ambulance.

Police said the road would be closed for several hours and that motorists should expect significant delays. However, the diversion put in place after the crash was itself later blocked by broken down lorries.

The A9 was also closed for a short time in both directions near Dornoch following a collision involving a car and a van near the Embo turn-off.

The driver of the car sustained minor injuries after his vehicle ended up in a field. Three men in the van, which belonged to ScotRail, were uninjured.

Police have advised the public to avoid travelling and to expect delays if travel is essential.

Meanwhile, several people have been injured in a seperate serious road incident near Dumfries.

Two vehicles were involved in the collision on the A711 Dumfries to Dalbeattie road at the Long Wood area at around 5pm today.

One person was taken to hospital and a number of others suffered cuts and bruises. Precise numbers and the full extent of their injuries have not been released.

The road was closed for several hours to allow investigations to be carried out. Witnesses to the crash have been asked to contact police in Dumfries.