M5 shuts after jackknifed lorry spills diesel

News imageBBC A jackknifed lorry lies across numerous lanes of a motorway. Traffic can be seen on each side as well as emergency services.BBC
The lorry spilt its fuel tank spilling diesel across all lanes, National Highways said

Drivers were warned of long delays after a lorry jackknifed and crashed into the central reservation of the M5 in Worcestershire, blocking lanes.

Emergency services were called to reports that the HGV had crashed and spilt its diesel fuel tank on the northbound carriageway, between junction five, near Droitwich and junction 4a for the M42, at about 15:20 BST.

One man was given medical treatment at the scene, West Midlands Ambulance Service said.

Lane closures remained in place for several hours while recovery and clean-up work was carried out, National Highways said. Most of the northbound lanes reopened shortly after 21:00.

News imageTraffic queues on the motorway. A sign with the text 'Traffic being released' as well as arrows and a temporary speed limit of 40 MPH hangs above.
The crash happened at about 15:20 BST on Friday

Delays of up to two hours were reported at one point with up to ten miles of congestion.

A spokesperson for the fire and rescue service confirmed no-one had been trapped but the lorry had spilt about 300 litres of diesel and had to be moved to the hard shoulder.

Drivers travelling northbound were advised to follow signed diversions and to use other routes or delay journeys where possible.

West Mercia Police confirmed a lorry had crashed into the central barrier and officers remained at the scene.

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