Emergency services confirmed that they were called to reports of two vehicles crashing at around 5.40pm this afternoon. Police told the Express that one person had been taken to hospital.

       The crash happened at Junction 20 of the motorway, at the intersection with the M5 north of Bristol.

       The M4 between Junctions 20 and 21 remained closed for several hours while emergency services responded to the incident.

       However, just after 8pm National Highways said that the motorway had reopened as the vehicles involved had been moved to the hard shoulder by traffic officers.

       Emergency services have since left the scene.

       National Highways added: "Residual delays of less than 10 minutes reported."

       It previously estimated that there were over 2.5 miles of congestion on the approach to the area where the collision occurred, and urged motorists to allow extra time for journeys through the busy junction.

       Avon Fire and Rescue told BristolLive earlier that crews were "on the scene rescuing one female casualty."

       It added: "Crews from Avonmouth, Patchway and Southmead were mobilised at 5:50pm to reports of a road traffic collision.

       Avon and Somerset Police said in a statement: "We were called at 5.40pm to reports of a two-vehicle collision on the eastbound carriageway near Junction 20 of the M4.

       "The road was closed by National Highways but has since been reopened. One person has been taken to hospital."

       South Western Ambulance Service was also contacted for comment.