A TANKER has crashed on the M5 causing heavy traffic as the motorway is closed in both directions.

The tanker, as seen in the photos, went through the central reservation and is causing significant tailbacks northbound between junctions 6 and 7.

It has since been confirmed the motorway is closed in both directions while police and highways officers deal with the crash.

A tweet from Highways England said: "Please be aware - incident occurring M5 northbound J7 Whittington to J6 Warndon has also affected the southbound carriage J6 to J7 which is now closed.

"Your journey time will be affected and you are advised to find alternative route if possible. Police led incident."

Highways West Midlands confirmed traffic officers are on scene dealing with the crash.

In a tweet, the agency said: "Lanes one and two blocked (of 3) M5 northbound J7 Whittington to J6 Warndon due to a collision.

"Traffic Officers on scene, there is a temporary stop on traffic."