A MOTORWAY was closed for more than seven hours today after two men were rushed to hospital.

The police, fire brigade and paramedics were alerted to an accident on the M65 at around 7am after a passing ambulance came across the two car crash close to junction 8.

At least two men, both in their 20s, were involved in the accident and both were taken to hospital.

One of those, a 22-year-old man from Nelson, who was the driver of a Volkswagen Golf was taken to Royal Preston Hospital with suspected pelvic injuries. His condition is not life-threatening.

A second man was taken to the Royal Blackburn Hospital. An ambulance travelling along the motorway spotted the collision and stopped to assist before calling for police and fire back-up. A further three ambulances were also sent to the scene.

Traffic was at a standstill between Accrington and Blackburn before a diversion was put in place, but many experienced tailbacks for up to five-miles before they started moving again.

A police spokesman said: “We were called just after 7am following reports of a two vehicle crash on the M65.

“There was some kind of fuel spillage across three lanes of the Eastbound motorway meaning the road had to remain closed while a clean-up took place.

“We would like to thank everyone for their understanding while the emergency services dealt with this protracted incident. Their co-operation is greatly appreciated as always.”

Jon Millar, 34, from Darwen, said: “The most startling thing was seeing five ambulances whizzing down the hard shoulder.

“I know it was nothing to do with this but it does go to show how we rely on the M65 – and when it shuts down we’re all in trouble. I hope everyone involved was not too badly injured.”

Police are now calling for witnesses, or anyone with dash cam footage, to get in touch.

Sgt Oliver Jones said: “An investigation is underway after a serious road traffic collision on the M65.

“We are appealing for witnesses and would ask anyone with dashcam footage showing the incident to come forward.”

Anyone with information call police on 101 quoting reference number 0271 of November 1.