MOTORISTS experienced traffic delays after a lorry struck a bridge

Drivers reported being at a standstill for at least an hour on the M61 on Monday night.

The accident happened at around 8.30pm, with the section of the motorway near Bolton completely shut.

Engineers were sent to the scene after which two lanes were opened to allow motorists to continue their journey.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "It happened at 8.37pm and the carriageway was closed.

"Lanes two of four were opened at 9.52pm and the rest of the carriageway was reopened at 11.10pm.

"Police and traffic officers were in attendance."

The M61was closed southbound between junction 2 and junction one.

One motorist told The Bolton News: "I was at a complete standstill where M61/A666 and M60 meet.

"Signs just said obstruction in the road.

"I did not move for an hour."