THE M6 has been closed this afternoon following a ‘serious’ crash involving four lorries.

All four lanes of the northbound carriageway were shut following the crash shortly after 12.30pm between junction 19 at Knutsford and junction 18 at Holmes Chapel.

One casualty, a man in his 40s, was released from his vehicle by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service after becoming trapped.

He was then taken to Aintree Hospital by air ambulance after suffering a leg injury.

The motorway was reopened at around 5pm, with the southbound carriageway having also been closed for a short period of time to allow the air ambulance to land.

Delays have also been reported on the southbound carriageway due to motorists slowing down in order to look at the crash.

None of the HGVs are believed to contain hazardous substances, with one carrying 27 tonnes of flour and another being a milk lorry.

Two fire engines, a major rescue unit and a rapid response unit were dispatched to the scene.

The North West Ambulance Service sent two ambulances, a rapid respponse vehicle and a hazard area response team to the incident in addition to the air ambulance.

Motorists are advised to seek an alternative route where possible.