M5 motorway closed in both directions after serious collision

A number of people have been seriously injured following two serious multi-vehicle collisions on the M5, police have said.

The M5 has been closed since Thursday evening following the collisions, causing major delays for rush hour traffic.

National Highways South West said the motorway was shut at about 23:00 BST on Thursday in both directions between J27 at Sampford Peverell and J28 in Cullompton in Devon.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the road would remain closed on Friday morning due to “extensive investigations”.

The force said the collisions were reported at about 21:50 and 23:10 on Thursday.

“A number of people have been seriously injured and the closures are likely to remain in place for at least another two hours,” it added.

“We thank drivers for their patience while recovery and investigation work is carried out.”

Bristol Airport has also advised people to seek an “alternative route”.

Devon County Council said there was higher than usual volumes of traffic around Cullompton and Willand due to the emergency closure and advised motorists to use alternative routes and allow extra time for journeys.

National Highways said at 07:50: “Police have advised the road will remain closed most of the morning due to extensive investigations.”