One-hour delays were being reported at Dartford Crossing, which connects Dartford in Kent and Thurrock in Essex, but travel times are down to 15 minutes. Two lanes have been closed and motorway cameras show gridlocked traffic.

       In a statement, Kent police said emergency calls were received "just before 2pm on Sunday, December 19 to the A282 near the Dartford Tunnel".

       It followed reports of a collision involving three vehicles.

       Two people suffered minor injuries, the force said.

       The tunnel was closed for a short time but has since re-opened, however traffic delays persist on the route with lane closures in place.