M20 in Kent closed after bridge collapse

A bridge has collapsed on a major motorway, bringing traffic to a halt on one of the busiest travel days of the year.

The M20 in Kent is closed between junctions three and four because of a "vehicle striking a bridge" on the eastbound carriageway, according to Highways England.

Pictures posted on social media showed the structure collapsed across the carriageways near the junction with the M26, badly damaged lorries nearby and queues of traffic.

Highways England's website warning said: "All emergency services are en-route or in attendance.

"Road users are being strongly urged to plan ahead and use alternative routes. The road is expected to be closed for an extended duration."

South East Coast Ambulance Service tweeted: "On scene of an RTC on the M20 j4 following bridge collapse. Currently dealing with one patient."

Kent Fire and Rescue added that it had been a "footbridge collapse".

Kent Police confirmed the injuries were not thought to be life-threatening, and that the collapse was caused when a lorry collided with the bridge.

The statement said: "(Police were) called at 12.07pm on Saturday August 27 to a report of a bridge collapse between junction 4 and junction 3 on the M20 London-bound. It is believed a lorry collided with a pedestrian bridge which has collapsed onto the carriageway below.

"Officers are in attendance along with Kent Fire and Rescue Service and South East Coast Ambulance Service. No people are believed to be trapped in the debris, however one person is believed to have suffered injuries, not reported to be life-threatening at this time.

"Police are treating this as a major incident and the M20 has been closed in both directions to allow this incident to be dealt with. Traffic will be heavier than usual."