Traffic has been brought to a standstill on the A59, as protesters rally outside BAE Systems in Samlesbury. 

Traffic is “stationary” on Myerscough Road, both ways from BAE Systems entrance to the Thwaites roundabout.

There is also congestion, and delays of around nine minutes, on the A667 through Samlesbury. There is slow traffic on routes through Salesbury and also routes through Mellor.

The delays are due to a demonstration by peace protesters outside BAE Systems - a multinational arms, security and aerospace company.

The demonstrators are urging BAE and other companies to end their ties with Israel and cease all weapons, defence and supplies trading with them. In the past week Israel has laid siege to Rafah where hundreds of civilians have been killed.

It is not the first time protesters have rallied outside BAE Systems. More recently, the protesters gathered at the end of January. At the time, there were delays of around 25 minutes in the area.

A spokesperson for AA Traffic and Travel said: “Stationary traffic due to demonstration on A59 Myerscough Road both ways from BAE Entrance to A59 (Thwaites roundabout).

“Congestion to the A667 through Samlesbury, slow traffic on routes through Salesbury and also routes through Mellor.”

A police spokesperson said: "There are currently traffic delays on the A59, Whalley Road, close to the entrance to BAE systems.

"Whilst the road remains open, there is a significant delay, and we would encourage you to find alternative routes where possible.

"We will bring you an update when we can."

A BAE Systems spokesperson said: “We’re horrified by the situation in Israel and Gaza and the devastating impact it’s having on civilians in the region and we hope it can be resolved as soon as possible.

"We respect everyone’s right to protest peacefully.

"We operate under the tightest regulation and comply fully with all applicable defence export controls, which are subject to ongoing assessment.”