Part of the M25 was shut for nearly seven hours following a serious crash near the Dartford Crossing.

Emergency services were dealing with the aftermath of a collision involving a lorry, a van and a motorbike on the Essex-bound carriageway of the A282.

It happened at around 3pm at J1B and congestion is backed up to J3 M20/A20 for the Swanley Interchange.

Sources initially said the road was likely to be blocked for around five hours.

There was also 11 miles of slow moving traffic on the opposite side of the carriageway as motorists slowed down to look at the crash, meaning it took around 60 minutes to get through the area.

Police said the carriageway has been closed at junction 2 and a diversion is being put in place to allow traffic to re-join the A282 at junction 1B.

Highways crews were working with traffic officers to free vehicles stuck in the queue after junction 2 but prior to the collision.

A police spokesman said: "Police officers and South East Coast Ambulance Service are at the scene where the carriageway has been closed at junction 2 and a diversion is being put in place to allow traffic to re-join the A282 at junction 1B.

"Highways crews are working with police to free vehicles that are stuck in the queue after junction 2 but prior to the collision."

A Highways England spokesman said: "The road is expected to be closed through rush-hour, so drivers are being advised to avoid the area, seek an alternative route, or delay journeys if possible.

"Congestion in the area is building and any drivers considering a journey are advised to check traffic conditions before setting out."

Officials later confirmed the carriageway later reopened at 9.51pm.

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