Highways England confirmed the M6 in Cheshire is closed southbound between J20 Lymm Interchange, M56 and J19 Knutsford A556 due to "a four vehicle collision involving two lorries, one car and a van". In addition there is damage to the central barrier and what Highways England termed a "large diesel spillage" that will need clearing. Motorists are having to come off at J20 with diversions in place.

       Motorists are having to come off at J20 with diversions in place.

       The closures are expected to last throughout the morning, according to North West Motorway Police.

       They said on Twitter: “1 Driver has now been taken to hospital. We are awaiting accident investigation to the scene.

       “Fuel / Oil is all over the carriageway. This will take some time to clear.

       “We anticipate that the closures will remain in place for the morning.”

       The road has been closed since around 3:30am, where traffic remains trapped inside the closure.

       North West Motorway Police said: “We have Accident Investigation at the scene M6 SB 20-19

       “WE HAVE 2 KMS OF TRAPPED TRAFFIC THAT WE ARE IN THE PROCESS OF TURNING

       “If you need to travel SB you will have to go EB on the M56 then SB on the A556

       “NB M6 is open.”

       It comes after Highways England posted an update to Twitter at 8:17am, saying their officers are at the scene on the M62 after a break down.

       They said: “The #M62 eastbound #J11 (#WarringtonEast #Birchwood #A574) to #J12 (#EcclesInterchange #M60 #M602) 1 lane has been closed due to a broken down vehicle.

       “Traffic Officers are currently at scene, Recovery are on their way to the area to assist.”