M4 and M48 closed after 'human remains' discovered

The M4 and M48 have been closed in both directions following the discovery of "human remains". Avon and Somerset Police said they were called at 6.40pm after "a body was found on the carriageway".

The closures begin on the English side of the Prince of Wales Bridge and the Severn Bridge. It has caused major disruption for anyone using these routes to head in and out of Wales this evening.

National Highways said the M4 was closed between the Prince of Wales Bridge and Junction 20 at Almondsbury. The M48 is closed between the M4 and Junction 1 near the Severn Bridge. The link from the M5 at junction 15 south to the M4 Junction 20 west, and the link from the M5 at junction 16 north to the M4 at Junction 20 west are also shut.

National Highways said Avon and Somerset Police were dealing with the incident. A police spokesperson said: "The M4 is closed in both directions after a body was found on the carriageway between junctions 20 (Almondsbury Interchange) and 21 (Awkley).

"Police were called at 6.40pm on Saturday 22 February by several drivers reporting something in the road. Officers attended and found human remains.

"Enquiries are underway to identify the deceased and notify next of kin, while an investigation to establish how the person came to be on the motorway continues. The road is expected to remain closed into the early hours of Sunday 23 February.

"Police are keen to hear from anyone who was travelling along that stretch of the M4 has any relevant information or dashcam footage. If you can help please call 101 and give the reference 5225047292."