Two rushed to hospital after crash on M3 causes traffic chaos

A collision involving a car and a van happened on the M3 southbound between junction eight and nine at about 6.30am.

All three emergency services were called to the scene of the incident, and the road was closed from 6.30am until about 12.20pm.

One lane of the M3 northbound was also closed on the same section of road but it is now fully open.

A South Central Ambulance Service statement on the southbound crash said: "We sent two ambulances, a paramedic team leader in a rapid response vehicle and our hazardous area response team to the scene.

"Working with Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and Hampshire Constabulary both drivers have been released from their vehicles, initial emergency treatment provided and both have sustained serious injuries and been taken to the major trauma centre at University Hospital Southampton.

"Diversions are in place so please avoid the area if possible or allow extra time for your journey this morning."

All lanes of the road are currently shut and a diversion route is in place on the A303 and A34.

Part of the northbound carriageway opposite the crash site has also been closed to aid the emerency services.

A Hampshire Constabulary spokeswoman said: "The collision, at 6.23am, involved a car and a van at junction 8, by the Winchesters services, on the southbound carriageway.

"Two people have been taken to hospital with serious injuries.

"The southbound carriageway is closed at junction 8, as is lane 2 of the northbound carriageway.

"A diversion is in place.

"The southbound carriageway is expected to be closed for most of the morning.

"The northbound lane expected to be opened sooner.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused and we will update as soon as we can."

Crews from Winchester and Basingstoke fire stations are dealing with the incident along with police and paramedics.

Ambulance crews have left the scene but a police spokesman was unable to say when the road would reopen.

More to follow