THE M6 was closed in both directions near Lancaster on Tuesday following a chemical spillage.

A lorry carrying chemicals was travelling south between Junctions 34 and 33 at 10pm last night when it lost control, crashed through the central reservation and overturned.

It collided with a lorry on the northbound carriageway, leading to the chemical spillage, and Lancashire Police closed the motorway in both directions.

A police spokesman said this morning: "Both vehicles and the debris have obstructed all three lanes of the northbound carriageway and a spillage of chemicals has occurred, so we have closed the M6 between Junctions 33 and 34.

"It is anticipated that the southbound carriageway will be cleared by mid-morning at best, but the northbound carriageway is likely to remain closed at least until early afternoon.

"Some heavy congestion is expected in the Lancaster area."

The driver of the chemicals lorry suffered serious injuries and was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital. The second driver had minor injuries.

The police spokesman said: "In the process of rescuing the drivers from the scene, a couple of police officers and one fire officer were affected by chemical fumes.

"Following minor hospital treatment, they have been released without any long-standing effects."