Man seriously injured as M1 crash closes motorway in both directions

Emergency services were called to the scene near Junction 8 for Hemel Hempstead shortly before 3pm, to reports one car had overturned in the collision on the southbound carriageway.

The road was shut from the Hemel Hempstead exit in both directions to allow for the recovery of the vehicles – a maroon Mazda X-5 and a silver Honda Accord – and for the Herts Air Ambulance to land.

An ambulance officer arrived at the accident within seven minutes and was followed by a rapid response vehicle and an ambulance, as well as the helicopter which took the injured man – aged in his 40s – to the Royal London Hospital.

His condition is reported to be serious but stable, and ambulance services have now completely left the scene.

Police are still on the scene, where the northbound lanes have been reopened but closures remain in place on the southbound carriageway.

Motorists are warned of delays on the road – check @HAtraffic_east or @roadpoliceBCH on Twitter for the latest updates.