A lorry crashed into the central reservation of the M66 this morning, Tuesday, leading to heavy delays for motorists.

The collision happened near junction 1 for Ramsbottom at 10.25am.

One lane was closed as maintenance workers repaired the barrier, which has now been completed, and the lorry has been recovered.

The closure was lifted at around 12.55pm.

No injuries have been reported.

A spokesperson for National Highways said: "An HGV collided with the central reservation on the M66 near Junction 1 (Ramsbottom). The incident happened at 10.25am.

"One lane of two was closed for the repair of the barrier, which has been successfully completed."

An eyewitness who was on the motorway at the time of the crash said that the incident had caused huge tailbacks and that the wagon had its windscreen all smashed in on the driver’s side.

Greater Manchester Police and North West Ambulance Service have been contacted for more information.