TRAFFIC is being released on the M25 as a recovery is ongoing after a "serious crash" in Essex.

The motorway in is now open anti-clockwise between junction 27 and junction 26, near Waltham Abbey, after the crash involving a car and a lorry.

Two lanes - of four - remain closed at this time while recovery is ongoing.

A National Highways spokesman said: "There's a 45 minute delay on approach so please allow extra journey time."

AA's traffic map shows severe delays of 69 minutes and, which are easing, on the M25 anticlockwise between junction 28 and junction 26.

An average speed of five miles per hour is being reported.

Essex Police is among the emergency services in attendance. National Highways traffic officers are also on scene assisting with traffic management.