A suspected gas leak shut a major road heading into rush hour.

Police and the fire brigade closed Elstree Hill between Barnet Lane and Allum Lane, in Elstree, after being called at 4pm.

Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue said a strong smell of gas was reported to them near a derelict pub. A gas engineer was able to fully isolate the leak.

A cordon has been lifted.

The road reopened at 5.30pm.

There are still some delays approaching the crossroads in the centre of the village.

The route 306 bus was being diverted via Deacons Hill Road and Barnet Lane.