A man has been found by the side of a road in Middlesbrough with his penis cut off.

A busy dual carriageway had to be closed by police as they searched for the severed penis of the man, who was found severely injured at 4.50am this morning.

The 40-year-old was discovered in a distressed state with "wounds to his groin area" by the A66. He is being treated in hospital for his injuries.

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The A66 Westbound from Greystone Roundabout to Church Lane was shut this morning and officers were seen combing the grass verge next to the road.

A police spokesperson told The Gazette Live that the road closures were necessary to prevent any evidence on how the man received his injuries from being lost or destroyed.

The road has now been reopened.

Cleveland Police said in a statement: "Police can confirm that the man found this morning on the A66 had wounds to his groin area.

"A 22-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault and is currently in police custody.

"Officers are continuing to investigate and are appealing for anyone with information to contact them."