THE M56 motorway was closed between junctions nine and 10 westbound following a serious crash this afternoon.

A white Mercedes Sprinter van reportedly collided with the central reservation on the westbound carriageway at about 12.25pm today (Tuesday, November 21).

A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: “Emergency services including the air ambulance are at the scene and the driver remains in a serious condition.

“Traffic is very heavy and motorists are advised to avoid the area. Diversions are in place.”

Shortly before 5pm, the M56 was reopened westbound between junctions nine and 10. But the third lane remained closed in both directions between the two junctions due the damage caused to the central reservation following the collision.