Traffic was stopped on the M61 for over four hours today due to what was described as a "serious collision".

A serious road traffic collision is reported to have taken place southbound on junction eight of the M61 around 1pm with emergency services rushing to the scene.

The road has been closed between junction 8 near Chorley to junction 6, A6027 De Havilland Way, Horwich

UPDATE: Woman in her 30s dies in M61 crash

The Bolton News: Section of M61 affected by traffic after serious collision between car and lorrySection of M61 affected by traffic after serious collision between car and lorry

The serious collision happened between a lorry and a car.

The accident happened just before the exit for Rivington services.

A Tweet from Lancashire Police said: "We are currently at the scene of a serious road traffic collision southbound at Junction eight of the M61.

"The road is likely to be closed for some time and motorists are advised to avoid the area."

The Bolton News:

A statement from Highways England said: "All emergency services are working at the scene in a response being led by Lancashire police.

"Diversion routes are in place."

Lancashire Police's Deputy Chief Constable also rushed to the scene of the serious collision, confirming there would be a lengthy delay.

However, the road was fully cleared with traffic flowing through it at around 5:30pm this evening.