A WOMAN died in a crash on the M61 today, police said. 

Emergency services were called at around 12.45pm to reports of a serious collision close to Bolton West (Rivington) Services. 

Police said a Kia Sportage car was travelling southbound when it left the carriageway and overturned.

The driver of the car, a woman in her 30s, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The collision led to the road being closed for more than four hours while accident investigators attended.

Police are appealing for witnesses or motorists who may have dashcam footage to come forward.

Sgt Chris Evans, of Lancashire Police’s Tactical Operations, said: “These are tragic circumstances and my thoughts are with the driver’s family and friends at this very sad and difficult time.

"A woman has lost her life and we are keen to establish exactly what has happened. We would encourage any witnesses, or any drivers with dashcam footage which might show the incident, to come forward if you can assist our investigation.”

Anyone with information can call 101 or email 802@lancashire.pnn.police.uk quoting log 0643 of June 28.