Traffic has been released on the M2 following a four-car crash during rush hour.

Both coastbound traffic towards Brenley Corner and Faversham and London-bound traffic towards Sittingbourne had been held for more than an hour, with the incident taking place on the London-bound carriageway.

Queues mounted in both directions although traffic has since reopened and the motorway is believed to be flowing as normal.

Two people have been taken to hospital though their injures are not described as life-threatening.

As many as six police cars are understood to be at the scene along with two ambulances and two fire engines.

A Kent Police spokesperson said: “Kent Police was called at 7.34am on Wednesday 10 January to a collision involving four cars on the London-bound carriageway of the M2, between junctions 6 and 5.

“Patrols, paramedics and highways officers attended the scene where both carriageways were closed. Two people were treated for injuries that are not described as life-threatening and have been taken to a local hospital for further medical attention.

“The coastbound carriageway has now reopened and one lane on the London-bound remains closed while arrangements are made to recover one of the vehicles.”

Traffic monitoring system Inrix says: “Long delays, queueing traffic and one lane closed due to accident on M2 London bound from J6 A251 Ashford Road (Faversham) to J5 A249 (Sittingbourne / Stockbury Roundabout).

“Coastbound has been reopened and traffic released, delays remain. A lane has also been reopened londonbound for traffic to pass but vehicles remain awaiting recovery.”