THE M56 eastbound has now reopened after it was shut earlier this morning (May 18) following a 'serious collision'.

Initially, the motorway was closed both ways between J14 Chester Services, near Helsby, and J12 Runcorn, police confirmed shortly after 5.30am.

However, the westbound carriageway reopened after 6am.

The eastbound carriagway remained completely closed until one lane was reopened shortly before 9am.

All lanes reopened at around 10am.

Congestion was backed up to J15 (M53) and there were also long delays through Hapsford, Frodsham and Sutton Weaver as traffic diverted.

Highways England tweeted earlier this morning: "The #M56 eastbound #J14 / Chester Services (#Stanlow #Helsby #A5117) to #J12 (#LiverpoolAirport #Runcorn #Widnes #A557) is in the process of being CLOSED due to a serious collision. Traffic Officers

@CheshireRCU @NWmwaypolice & @NWAmbulance are on their way to the area."

It later posted on its website: "The M56 eastbound in Cheshire is closed between J14 (Stanlow, Helsby, A5117. Chester Services) and J12 (Runcorn, Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Widnes, Northwich A557) due to an incident being led by North West Motorway Police Group.

"There are long delays on the approach to the closure with delays of over 30 minutes and congestion back through J15. Please only travel if absolutely necessary.

"A diversion is in operation. Exit the M56 at J14 and follow the solid diamond symbol on local road signs. This will route traffic A5117 southbound, the A56 southbound, A557 northbound to J12 of the M56. PLEASE NOTE: There is a low bridge on this route with a clearance of 14'6" (4.4m) on this route and it is unsuitable for vehicles over this height. Road users driving vehicles over this height will need to plan ahead and use alternative routes.

"Road users intending on using the M56 eastbound in Cheshire should plan ahead and consider alternative routes and allow additional time for their journey."