IT was an apple turnover that left a very sour taste.

A fruit lorry containing apples and pears overturned on the A40 yesterday and caused drivers huge problems for nearly 12 hours.

The accident happened at 6am near the Asthall Barrow roundabout, between Burford and Minster Lovell.

About half an hour later a second lorry, from Gloucestershire's Shipton flour mill, became stuck, adding to the queues.

Long delays were reported as one lane was blocked and traffic snaked in both directions.

And the road was closed between the B4477 Brize Norton turning, west of Witney, and Burford at about 9am to allow recovery. The A40 reopened at 5.30pm.

Police said the delay was due to the contents of the lorry having to be unloaded before it could be turned upright.

A diversion was put in place via the A361 and through Carterton.

Rush-hour drivers were advised to avoid the area.

The lorry driver suffered minor injuries and was taken to Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital.