Two killed in horror crash on the M5

Two women were killed today in a horror crash involving a lorry and a car, leading to the M5 being closed this afternoon.

The motorway was shut in both directions between junction 3 at Halesowen and junction 4 for Bromsgrove and was expected not to reopen before 6pm at the earliest.

The lorry is believed to have been travelling northbound when it lost control at around 11.40am, smashed through the central reservation and collided with a Mercedes heading southbound.

The car's driver and passenger, both believed to be women, were killed in the tragedy.

It is believed the lorry driver was taken to hospital with minor injuries. Police, firefighters and ambulance crews attended the scene along with officers from the Highways Agency.

Queues stretched for several miles in both directions following the accident, leading to lengthy delays for drivers.

Northbound traffic was advised to leave the M5 at junction 4 and follow diversion route signs, while southbound traffic was advised to leave the motorway at junction 3 and follow signs.

Traffic building up at junction 3 got caught up in queues caused by roadworks on the A456 Manor Way in Halesowen, leading to major congestion on surrounding roads.

The accident is being investigated by the Central Motorway Police Group. Witnesses should call 0121 626 1285.