Traffic was held twice on the M2 today after two multi-vehicle crashes.

The motorway was initially blocked London-bound between Junction 3 and 2, near Rochester and Chatham due to a collision at 2.20pm.

All drivers were temporarily held, as three of the four lanes on the road were blocked.

Traffic officers were sent to the scene, along with police, fire and ambulance, before lanes were reopened.

National Highways tweeted an update at 3.02pm saying: "Traffic has been stopped whilst the vehicles from the collision are moved and a spillage cleared.

"Officers are working as fast as they can. If you're in the queue thank you for your patience."

A further crash involving a lorry and several cars then led to three lanes being closed coastbound between Junction 2 at Strood and Junction 3 at around 5pm.

All lanes have since been reopened and delays were said to be easing at around 6.15pm.

A police spokesman commented: "Officers were called to a report of a collision involving five vehicles at 2.20pm.

"We are currently at the scene assisting with the response.

"Some lanes remain open but delays are likely."

The ambulance service have confirmed that three patients were assessed and treated, then taken to Medway Maritime Hospital for further treatment.