The M11 has been closed off in both directions near Stansted Airport after a lorry overturned.

The major motorway was closed between J8 near Stansted Airport and J7A near Harlow North following the incident, reports.

Nationals Highways said the disruption is "due to a collision involving an overturned heavy goods vehicle which has crossed from the northbound carriageway onto the southbound carriageway and has subsequently overturned and come to rest on its side".

The government owned company, which maintains motorways and A-roads has warned drivers that the closures are set to remain in effect for several hours while police probe the incident.

"Essex police will be carrying out collision investigations throughout the evening," it said. "The closures are expected to remain in place for several hours throughout the evening and into the night.

"National Highways Traffic Officers and service providers are in attendance and are assisting with traffic management. Traffic caught within the closure on the southbound carriageway is in the process of being released via rearward relief.

"Traffic caught within the closure on the northbound carriageway is in the process of being released in lane 1. This will take some time due to the volumes of traffic.

"Please await until you are instructed in both directions. Thank you for your patience."

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