The NORTHBOUND M5 between junction 11 at Gloucester and junction 9 at Ashchurch is expected to remain closed until early tomorrow following an earlier multi-vehicle crash and vehicle fire.

Police were called at 5.20am this morning (Sunday) after a Ford Fiesta left the motorway.

A lorry parked behind the car to offer help and protection but was then hit by another lorry.

The southbound carriageway is currently also closed although it is anticipated at least one lane of the southbound carriageway will be reopened shortly.

Motorists are advised to consider their journeys or find alternative routes.

Highways England network operations manager Beverley Mears said: “We are working at the scene with emergency service partners.

“Due to extensive road surface damage which will require resurfacing the northbound carriageway is expected to remain closed until tomorrow morning so please bear this in mind when planning your journeys and consider alternative routes.”

Motorists heading northbound are advised to follow the solid triangle, leave M5 at junction 11 and take the A40, then take the A417 onto the M50 at junction 2. Continue on the M50 and re-join at junction 9.

Motorists heading southbound are advised to follow the solid circle, leave M5 at junction 9 and take the A38 and then take the A40 and re-join the M5 at junction 11.

Further information and updates can be found by visiting www.trafficengland.com or by following Highways England’s regional Twitter feed at @HighwaysSWEST