M61 closure LIVE: Motorway reopen after 'multi-vehicle collision' but drivers still face long delays - latest updates

Drivers are being warned of long delays on the motorways this morning following a 'multi-vehicle collision' on the M61.

The motorway is currently blocked between junction three and four near Bolton following the smash on the southbound carriageway at around 6am. Emergency services are on the scene.

All traffic is being held, National Highways said.

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Traffic cameras close to the scene show long queues building in the area. Drivers are being warned of delays of at least 50 minutes with congestion backing up to junction six.

Traffic England said the incident was expected to be clear by 8.30am.

National Highways North-West tweeted: " Traffic is currently stopped on the M61 southbound between J4 and J3 A 666 near Bolton due to a multi vehicle collision.

"Emergency services are on scene. Delays are building on approach."

The motorway has now reopened following the earlier crash.

But National Highways warn there's still delays of around an hour.

The #M61 southbound between J4 #A6 and J2 #A666 near #Bolton has now REOPENED following a multi vehicle collision.

There are residual delays of at least an hour approaching J4. pic.twitter.com/nd7d6KKKKm

National Highways is warning there's now delays of 70 minutes.

The M61 southbound remains closed between junctions four and two.

The #M61 southbound between J4 #A6 and J2 #A666 near #Bolton remains closed following a multi vehicle collision.

There are delays of at least 70 minutes approaching the closure at J4.

Diversion routes are available here - https://t.co/aVxQ0AwS7I… pic.twitter.com/92aJxyiDYJ

Here's the latest update from Inrix, who report the accident has been moved