Motorway shut after two serious crashes

Some motorists have been stuck in the traffic for more than 90 minutes

Part of a motorway is closed due to two serious collisions.

National Highways said the M4 Eastbound was shut between J17 for Chippenham and J18 for Bath.

A lane is also closed in each direction between J16 for Swindon West and J17.

Emergency services are on the scene and a diversion is in operation with long delays expected.

A National Highways spokesperson said: "Please allow extra journey time if you are in the area this evening."

Wiltshire Police said the road was likely to be closed for several hours.

"Please find alternative routes," the force added.

A driver stuck in the queue on the eastbound carriageway said it appeared to be a "serious incident" with three lanes of traffic at a complete standstill since before 20:00 GMT.

"We've seen several emergency vehicles arrive down the hard shoulder with blue flashing lights - at least three fire engines, two ambulances and several police cars."

She said for a time a helicopter was hovering overhead "as if trying to find a place to land".