A LORRY laden with cola syrup has overturned on the M6, causing heavy traffic and rush hour delays for commuters.

The incident occurred just before 1am, at junction 19 on the northbound carriageway. A full closure is currently in place around the junction.

The driver was trapped and has been placed in the care of the ambulance service, although he is not believed to have suffered any serious injuries.

Drivers are urged to avoid the area, and those on the road are being diverted off at junction 19 via the exit slip road before re-joining via the entry slip road.

Middlewich is also suffering from heavy congestion, with residents reporting lengthy delays and standstill traffic through much of the town.

Anyone with any information on the incident is asked to call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 35 of 15 November.