THE A686 has reopened in both directions after an early-morning crash involving two vans.

Four engines from Penrith, Lazonby and Shap's fire stations and police were called to reports of a crash just after 5.30am at Carleton in Penrith.

The incident involved two Ford Transit vans - one of which had a trailer attached.

A HGV then clipped one of the vans as it passed.

All occupants of the vehicles involved were out upon arrival of the fire crews.

The firefighters made the vehicles safe and assisted with casualty care. Crews were in attendance for about thirty minutes.

Both van drivers were taken to hospital as a precaution.