TWO lanes on the M6 southbound have been closed for several hours after a lorry crashed through the inside barrier and ended up on its side.

The incident happened at around 6.30am this morning (Saturday, September 18) between junctions 17 and 16, when the HGV was involved in a collision with a saloon car.

National Highways say there are tailbacks of more than five miles as a result of the crash, as crews try their best to free the overturned lorry from the side of the motorway.

Emergency crews, including three fire engines, were quickly dispatched to the scene and it is thought no serious injuries were sustained.

A spokesman for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "At around 6.30am firefighters from Crewe, Sandbach and Alsager, along with the Major Rescue Unit from Winsford, were dispatched to reports of a collision on the M6 Southbound between junctions 17 and 16.

"On arrival at the scene the crews found the collision involved a saloon car and a HGV.

"Two lanes of the carriageway were temporarily closed while firefighters made the vehicles safe.

"There were no reports of any serious injuries, although one person was treated by paramedics.

"The crews were detained at the scene for around 40 minutes."

Two lanes on the motorway, after Sandbach Services, will remain closed for some time as recovery teams attempt to move the stricken lorry.

North West Motorway Police tweeted: "There are currently two lanes closed due to an RTC on the #M6 SB between J17 & J16.

"No Injuries reported and lanes likely to remain closed for the duration of the recovery."

Motorists had been advised to plan ahead with delays up to 45 minutes expected.