M6 LIVE traffic updates as motorway to remain shut for hours after serious crash

Drivers heading south from Cheshire are being warned to expect major disruption with the M6 motorway closed off following a fatal crash. National Highways says the M6 southbound is expected to remain closed 'throughout the day' (February 28) between junctions 16 near Crewe and 15 for Stoke-on-Trent. It follows a serious collision between a lorry and car overnight, according to National Highways, with a 'protracted police closure' still in place this morning.

In a tragic update, police said a man died in the crash. A West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "On arrival crews found two men. The first patient, the driver of the lorry, was found in a critical condition and sadly, it quickly became apparent nothing could be done to save him, and he was confirmed deceased at the scene.

"The second patient, the driver of the car, was treated for potentially serious injuries before being conveyed under blue lights and sirens to Royal Stoke University Hospital." A spokesperson for National Highways said: "The M6 in Staffordshire remains closed southbound between J16 near Crewe and J15 near Stoke-on-Trent due following a serious collision that occurred overnight. "This is a protracted police closure and the carriageway will remain closed throughout the day for ongoing investigation work at the scene."

A diversion is in place to take motorists off the M6 between junctions 16 and 15. The A500 near Stoke is likely to be busy this morning as a result. This is a live event.

Follow the latest M6 traffic updates below.