KENT Police's serious collision investigation unit is appealing for witnesses after three people died in a crash on the M20.

The tragedy occurred on the London-bound carriageway near junction 7 at Maidstone at about 3.15pm on Tuesday. The three who died were in a white van.

Traffic was diverted at J7, the slip road for the A249 and the London-bound carriageway was closed. Motorists were asked to avoid the area and use alternative routes.

Kent Police were working with the Highways Agency to minimise traffic disruption where possible.

A spokeswoman said: "Police priorities are to prevent further loss of life or injury, discover the cause of the collision for HM Coroner and secure any relevant evidence."

Anyone who may have seen the collision is asked to contact the serious collision investigation unit's witness appeal line on 01622 798537.