THE M6 northbound was forced to close as police responded to concerns for a man’s welfare.

The northbound carriageway closed between junctions 16, for Crewe, and junction 17, for Sandbach on Wednesday, March 20, after a man was spotted on the wrong side of the safety barrier on a bridge which spans the motorway.

At 10.58am, National Highways North-West reported traffic had been ‘temporarily stopped’, and warned of delays of up to 45 minutes due to a ‘police-led incident’.

By 11.17am, they confirmed traffic had been released, but said drivers should expect residual delays of up to 45 minutes.

A Cheshire Police spokesman confirmed they were called out in response to a welfare concern for a man, adding: “The situation was resolved without further incident”.

Samaritans is available round the clock, every single day of the year, providing a safe place to talk for anyone who is struggling to cope.

 Call 116 123 (this number is free to call and will not appear on your phone bill), 01204 521200 or email jo@samaritans.org.