A PRISON van overturned on a busy motorway after being shunted from behind in an accident with a car.

The incident happened around 3.40pm yesterday.

Witnesses told police a black Ford Focus hit the white prison van from behind.

The van, operated by a private security firm, spun around and overturned on the eastbound carriageway of the M65, close to junction eight at Hapton.

Police said it landed back on its wheels after colliding with the embankment.

The driver and a front seat passenger had minor injuries.

There were no prisoners in the back of the van.

A female passenger in the Ford Focus had to be lifted free from the car, but police said her injuries were not serious.

All three casualties were taken to Burnley General Hospital for treatment.

The carriageway was closed for a short time.