A noise "like an explosion" rang out around the M5 motorway as part of a tipper truck smashed into the overhead gantry. Witnesses have described the aftermath of the crash near Bristol this morning (March 2), which closed both sides of the carriageway after the vehicle became wedged vertically beneath the metal framework.
No one is believed to have been injured but the incident, which happened at about 8.20am, but it has caused major disruption that is expected to continue throughout today. National Highways' log of the incident states (as of 4.20pm): "Structural engineers are currently on scene carrying out a full inspection of the damage sustained.
"Early estimations are that the the road is likely to remain closed throughout the day." The M5 is closed northbound between J18A (M49) and J17 (Cribbs Causeway) and southbound between J17 and J18, with a diversion route in place.
