M62 closure live as stretch shut in both directions following smash

The M62 has been closed in both directions following an early morning crash. The motorway is completely shut from junction 22 Rishworth Moor, near Oldham, to junction 24 for Ainley Top in West Yorkshire.

The crash was first reported at around 2.30am. Police remain at the scene.

The motorway is likely to remain closed throughout the morning. Diversions are in place.

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In a statement National Highways said: "West Yorkshire Police remain working on scene, and have confirmed the road will likely to remain closed through out the morning while police investigations continue. Once investigations are complete, clear up works will be in operation before re-opening the road to traffic."

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West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued a statement. It says crews were called to a 'serious road traffic collision' on the eastbound carriageway at 2.14am.

A spokesperson said:

Crews attended a serious road traffic collision on the M62 between junctions 22 to 23 eastbound.

Three fire engines from Rastrick, Slaithwaite and Rochdale attended, along with the Technical Rescue crews from Cleckheaton.

The M62 remains closed both directions between Junctions 22 and 24.

Traffic monoitoring site Inrix is reporting a 'serious multi-vehcile crash' took place just after 2am.

Their latest update reads: "M62 in both directions closed due to accident investigation work between J22 A672 (Rishworth Moor) and J24 A629 (Ainley Top).

"Congestion to routes through Rishworth as traffic diverts following a serious multi vehicle crash just after 2am Saturday morning."

An unconfirmed witness report describes several vehicles being involved