A 'serious collision' motorway along a section of the has caused up to two miles of delays this evening, causing traffic chaos. The incident happened at around 7pm in the southbound direction between junctions 17 and 16 in .

Emergency services, including police and rushed to the scene, where they remain at the time of writing. Motorists are being directed away from the crash via a diversion.

The stated that there is a two-mile backlog of traffic. A spokesman said: "The M6 in Cheshire is closed southbound between J17 (Sandbach) and J16 (Crewe) due a serious collision.

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"Cheshire Police, North West Ambulance Service and National Highways Service providers are in attendance. On approach to the closure, delays are likely."

They later added: "Trapped traffic is currently being released via lane 4 (of 4). There is congestion of approx. 2 miles on approach to the closure." Motorists have been advised to call 0300 123 5000 for any updates.

While a police statement said: "The M6 is currently closed in the southbound direction between J17 (Sandbach) and J16 (Crewe) as officers respond to an incident. North West Ambulance Service and National Highways Service providers are also in attendance and significant delays are likely. Motorists are advised please allow extra time when traveling and to find alternate routes where possible. Thank you for your patience this evening."

Drivers are being advised to follow route marked with a hollow circle symbol on road signs:

• Exit the M6 at J17
• At the end of the slip road turn right on to the A534
• Follow the A534 towards Crewe
• At the Crewe Green Roundabout take the second exit on to the A5020 University Way
• Follow the A5020 on to David Whitby Way
• At the Weston Gate Roundabout with the A500 take the first exit
• Follow the A500 Shavington Bypass eastbound on to Alsager Road and continue to the M6 J16
• At the roundabout take the fourth exit to re-join the M6 southbound