A TANKER crashed on the M5 earlier today, resulting in heavy traffic and the closure of the motorway in both directions.

The tanker went through the central reservation and caused significant tailbacks northbound between junctions 6 and 7.

Traffic is now flowing in both directions Northbound and Southbound, however Lane 3 remains closed both ways for barrier repair.

There is a fuel spillage and debris on the road.

Officers have warned drivers to avoid the area if possible as there are "significant delays" approaching the closures in both directions.

Emergency services including West Mercia Police and Worcestershire Fire and Rescue Service are in attendance.

Highways England Traffic Officers are also on scene, providing assistance with traffic management.

There is a significant amount of barrier damage at scene, for which Highways England contractors will be attending to assess and repair.

The vehicle is transporting flammable liquids, and an exclusion zone is in place for safety reasons.

Northbound diverted traffic should follow the hollow triangle diversion symbol. Leave the M5 at J7 and bear left onto the A44. Continue on the A44 until the roundabout with the A4440. Take the second exit at the roundabout and join the A4440 northbound. Continue on this road, passing over five roundabouts until the roundabout with Berkeley Way. Turn right and then re-join the M5 northbound at J6.

Southbound diverted traffic should follow the solid diamond diversion symbol. Leave the M5 southbound at J6 and bear left onto the A4538. Continue to the first roundabout and then take the third exit onto the B4636. Continue to the next roundabout and then take the first exit onto the A4440. Continue on this road until the second roundabout and then take the first exit onto the B4084. Continue on this road to then re-join the M5 southbound at J7.