The M2 was closed London-bound for almost two hours after a crash.

National Highways said the carriageway was blocked between Junction 6 for Faversham and Junction 5 for Sittingbourne and Maidstone – and initially warned it could stay that way for "several hours".

The accident happened just after 5.30am.

At 8.20am, National Highways tweeted: "The #M2 westbound/Londonbound in #Kent will be closed for several hours between J6 and J5 following a very serious collision which requires police investigation work."

Police, South East Ambulance Service and National Highways Traffic Officers are in attendance.

A National Highways spokesman added: "The road is expected to remain closed for a protracted period due to the severity of the collision. A collision investigation is required.

"Road users caught within the closure will be released as soon as possible."

Drivers were advised to follow a diversion, marked with a solid square symbol on road signs.

It takes motorists along the A251 to Challock, the A252 to Charing, the A20 to Maidstone, the London-bound M20 at Junction 8, the Sheppey-bound A249, rejoining the M2 at Junction 5.

But at 8.49am, police tweeted to say the outside lane had been reopened.

"The #M2 London-bound between J6-J5 is now reopened in Lane 2 only following an earlier incident, #LPT1, @SECAmbulance and @kentfirerescue are still operating in the carriageway so please drive carefully," said @KentPoliceSwale.

A police spokesman said: "Kent Police was called at 5.38am on Saturday to the M2 London-bound between junctions 6 and 5 following reports that a vehicle collided with the central reservation.

"South East Coast Ambulance Service are in attendance.

"One lane is currently closed."

More as we get it.