A man has died after becoming trapped in an overturned vehicle on the M11 near Harlow.

Emergency services were called shortly after 10.05am to the southbound carriageway between junctions 8 for Bishop's Stortford and 9 for Newmarket.

The driver of a small vehicle transporter, which was carrying a white van, became trapped after the transporter overturned.

Paramedics tended to the man but he died at the scene.

The northbound side of the M11 reopened earlier, but the southbound side is expected to remain closed for a number of hours.

This is while forensic examination work is carried out and a diesel spill is cleared.

Police say they are working to turn around traffic trapped in tailbacks “as fast as possible” and to get bottled water to drivers.

A spokesperson from Essex Police said: "We appreciate it is very hot and many people have been stuck for several hours.

"We are working hard to get drivers to their destinations safely and ask people to be patient and wait until instructed by police to turn around.

"Do not put other people at risk by turning around without instruction or by driving on the hard shoulder and blocking access for emergency vehicles."

The following diversion routes are in place:

  • Exit the M11 at J10 onto the A505 and continue to the A505/A10 roundabout at Royston.
  • At the roundabout, take the first exit onto the A10 south and continue through Reed, Buckland, Chipping, Buntingford, Colliers End, High Cross, Thundridge and Ware to the A10/A414 West Roundabout.
  • At the roundabout, take the first exit onto the A414 to Harlow and re-join the M11 southbound at J7.

Anyone who saw the collision or has dash cam footage is asked to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on CollisionAppeal@essex.pnn.police.uk.

You can also speak to an online operator at https://www.essex.police.uk between 7am-11pm or call 101.

Quote incident 427 of today's date.