A RUNAWAY dog has caused a three car-crash on the M61 near Farnworth.

The large, white female Akita was seen loose on the motorway between junctions 3 and 4 near Plodder Lane at about 1pm today.

Three vehicles were said to be involved in a "minor" crash while trying to avoid the animal.

The North West Motorway Police tweeted that the dog suffered a paw injury after being hit by a car.

Officers wrote: "Highways Agency with the dog on the M61 J4-J3 Plodder Ln-Farnworth. Dog has been struck & has paw injury. @RSPCA_official en route to assist."

The M61 has now been cleared and RSPCA officers have been called to the scene.


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