Police warn drivers to avoid motorway

POLICE are warning drivers in the Warrington area to avoid the M56, following a major traffic incident at Preston Brook this afternoon.
A heavy lorry has left the carriageway while crossing a bridge over the motorway at Junction 11.
The lorry, laden with household goods, came to a rest on the westbound carriageway. The M56 is now closed in both directions at the location and traffic is being diverted off the motorway at junction 11.
A police spokeswoman said: “Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the M56 in the vicinity of Warrington and Runcorn and to seek alternative routes. The motorway is expected to be closed for several hours and this will impact heavily upon rush hour traffic in and around Warrington.
The A56 above the motorway leading from Preston Brook to Warrington is also closed to traffic.
Any witnesses to the collision are urged to contact Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000.