Long delays as tanker crosses M5 barrier and overturns
The M5 was shut in both directions after a tanker full of flammable liquids crossed the central reservation and overturned.
The crash happened between Junction 7 near Worcester and Junction 6 for Evesham at about 10.30am today.
Emergency services, including West Mercia Police and Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, were sent to the scene where the motorway was shut in both directions.
The driver was initially trapped but was freed by firefighters before being treated by paramedics for what were believed to be minor injuries.
Highways England Traffic Officers were also on scene, providing assistance with traffic management.
Contractors were sent to the scene to repair the major damage caused to the barrier and an exclusion zone was put in place due to the tanker carrying flammable liquids.
West Mercia Police warned drivers to expect delays, saying: "The M5 is currently closed both ways between J6 and J7 after a lorry overturned travelling north. There is a fuel spillage and debris in the road. Expect delays in the area… ‘Officers are in the process of recovering the overturned tanker and clearing debris from the road."
Hereford and Worcester Fire Service released a statement saying: "Five crews from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service were called at 10:27 on 23 September to an RTC involving a lorry between Junctions 6 and 7 on the M5.
"A tanker lorry travelling southbound had crossed the central reservation of the motorway and come to rest on the embankment of the northbound carriageway.
"The driver was initially trapped but released as ‘walking wounded’ and handed over to the care of paramedics.
"The tanker was carrying chemicals but its integrity has been confirmed and there are no leaks.
"Both carriageways were closed but the incident is now being scaled down and two fire engines remain in attendance."
