A major section of the M61 was closed for more than four hours this morning after a crash between a van and an Large Goods Vehicle.

The incident at around 8.40am lead to a hydraulic spillage.

The road was closed southbound between Junction Eight at Chorley and Junction Six at Middlebrook.

Recovery crews were sent to the scene and a clean up operation was required after the spillage.

Traffic was diverted between the two junctions.

The Bolton News:

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A National Highways spokesperson said the incident involve a crash between a van and an LGV and hydraulic fluid has spilled across the carriageway.

They said:  The incident happened at 8.38am. 

"The collision resulted in the LGV’s trailer jack knifing and shedding its load of tree surgeon equipment across all three lanes of the carriageway. 

"A full closure of the motorway has been implemented to allow for removal of the equipment and vehicle. 

"Hydraulic fluid from the vehicle has also spilt across all three lanes and this means the road surface will also need to be treated to make it safe."

The Bolton News:

The road was reopened at 1pm.