M42 traffic LIVE: Major motorway closed in both directions just miles from huge airport

A major motorway is closed to all traffic this afternoon after a heavy crash, sparking rush hour chaos.

The M42 is closed in both directions at its junction with the M1, with that junction also closed on that motorway.

Leicestershire Police tweeted: "** Traffic Update 15:56** The M42 is closed both north and southbound between the junctions of Tonge and M1 J23a - Please find alternate routes. Updates to follow."

National Highways said the route was closed due to a "road traffic collision" and expects traffic to clear by 7.30pm.

It added there were currently delays of 40 minutes against expected traffic, with both lanes shut in both directions.

This is a live blog. Scroll down for updates.