Drivers are being advised that the M5 southbound between junctions 8 (M50, Strensham) and 9 (Tewkesbury, A46) in Worcestershire is closed following a serious incident overnight.

In this collision, three men have died, and five other people required medical treatment. Of the three fatalities, two of the men died at the scene, and the third man died in hospital. It is believed that at least four vehicles were involved in the crash.

The road is closed to allow for an extensive investigation by Gloucestershire Police. The collision happened at around 1am this morning (Thursday, June 2nd) and the road has been closed throughout the morning rush hour.

The incident required the attendance of three police forces (Gloucestershire, West Mercia and units from the Central Motorway Police Group) along with units from Hereford and Worcestershire Fire and Rescue Service, and the West Midlands Ambulance Service, in addition to Traffic Officer and contractors from Highways England’s West Midlands and South West regions.

Traffic is being diverted to follow the solid square symbol route via the M50 westbound to junction 2. Exit the M50 and take the A417 southbound towards Gloucester. At the roundabout with the A40 take the first exit on to the A40 eastbound and travel around Gloucester to rejoin the M5 at J11.

If travelling from further afield, you may want to consider travelling to junction 3 of the M42 and using the A435 southbound to Alcester and then join the A46 southbound, continue past Evesham and on to Tewkesbury to meet the M5 at junction 9.

Road users intending on using the M5 southbound between junctions 8 and 9 are advised to allow additional time for their journeys as both the diversion routes comprise of single carriageway roads through rural areas.

For more information, Highways England provides live traffic information via its website (www.highways.gov.uk/traffic-information), local and national radio travel bulletins, Twitter, electronic road signs and mobile platforms, such as Android and iPhone apps.