THREE children are among five injured following an early morning crash on the M61 northbound just after the Rivington services.

The North West Ambulance Service confirmed that they had sent three ambulances, a rapid response vehicle and an operation commander to the scene at around 2am.

The three children suffered minor injuries while an adult woman suffered head and back injuries.

An adult man also suffered head injuries, with the five being taken to Preston hospital for treatment.

None of the injuries were serious.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Three fire engines from Chorley and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service were called to a road traffic collision on the M61 northbound just after Rivington services.

"A car had left the motorway and five casualties were released by firefighters and treated by paramedics at the scene."

A fire earlier in the morning had closed the services temporarily while fire crews attended the scene.

It has now been reopened.