A 'VERY serious crash' on the M11 has forced authorities to close the motorway in a northbound direction.
Emergency services are currently at the scene between Junctions 7 and 8 where a vehicle has caught alight following a serious multi-vehicle crash, including an LGV and a horsebox.
It is believed that the horsebox involved belongs to Newmarket based trainer Brian Meehan.
A police spokeswoman said: "Emergency services have been called to a serious collision on the M11 at around 2.15pm.
"The collision between Junctions 7 to Harlow, and 8 to Bishops Stortford / Stansted involves a number of cars and at least one LGV.
"One vehicle caught alight and there are serious injuries."
Two ambulances, a rapid response vehicle and an air ambulance have been called to the scene which is said to involve multiple casualties.
Motorists are advised to find alternate routes following the accident between junctions 7 and 8, to Harlow and Stansted Airport
Traffic is also very slow travelling southbound because of people stopping to look at the accident. Update 4.12pm: It is now thought the closure of the northbound carriageway could last for several hours, affecting motorists heading home through the evening rush hour.
Current delays are at least 30 minutes and drivers, and in particular those wishing to travel to Stansted airport are advised to plan their journeys and allow extra time to travel.
The Highways Agency are advising road users wishing to access Stansted and travelling on the M25 anticlockwise to consider taking the A12 to Chelmsford, then the A130 north to Braintree, and then the A120 eastbound to Stansted.
