News Beat
M61 close after 2 left with multiple injuries in motorway crash
Emergency services remain on the M61, which is shut both ways at junction two and Junction four, at M60/A666.
Firefighters were called to rescue the two from the vehicle just before 6pm.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) told The Bolton News three fire engines from Farnworth and Bolton fire stations, along with an Enhanced Rescue Unit from Leigh, were deployed to the scene.
One vehicle had left the carriageway and come to rest in a ditch. Two people, a man and a woman, were trapped inside the vehicle and were suffering from multiple injuries.
Firefighters used winching and cutting equipment to release both casualties.
They were then taken to hospital by crews from North West Ambulance Service.
The incident was later handed over to Greater Manchester Police, and fire crews left the scene after approximately one hour.
According to National Highways, the situation is described as “severe”.
DIVERSIONS
Diversions are in place and National Highways Traffic Officers are on site assisting with traffic management.
The closure is expected to clear between 10.45pm and 11pm, with normal traffic conditions anticipated to resume during that time frame.
The diversions are currently in operation.
Northbound traffic is advised to follow the solid square diversion symbol:
- Leave the M61 at Junction 2
- Follow the A666 Kearsley Spur northbound
- Continue via the A6053, A5082 and A6
- Rejoin the M61 at Junction 4 via Watergate Lane
Southbound traffic should follow the solid circle diversion symbol:
- Leave the M61 at Junction 4
- Follow the A6, A5082, A6053 and A666 Kearsley Spur
Rejoin the M61 at Junction 2
Drivers are being urged to allow extra journey time, consider alternative routes, or delay their journeys where possible.
Further updates are available via trafficengland.com, travel apps, National Highways’ regional X (Twitter) feed, or by contacting the 24/7 National Highways information line on 0300 123 5000.
