Motorists are experiencing large delays on the M56 following a collision on the motorway this afternoon.

Following the accident, two lanes have been closed on the M56 eastbound by Chester services (junction 14), heading towards Runcorn/Widnes (junction 12).

It is understood that four cars and a van were involved in the incident, which has resulted in traffic queues exceeding eight miles.

Traffic officers, Cheshire Police Roads & Crime Unit and Northwest Motorway Police are currently at the scene.

National Highways are warning that motorists should expect delays of at least 40 minutes and should allow extra time for journeys.

There is also congestion to A494 before the M56 begins and long delays on the A56 through Frodsham and junction 11 (Preston Brook).

Shortly after 4.30pm, Highways England advised that the traffic collision has been cleared, but two lanes remain closed on the motorway due to a broken down milk tanker further back.