TWO people have been killed in a massive crash on the M56 near Runcorn between a coach, two lorries and a car.

The eastbound carriageway has been closed with drivers heading to Warrington warned to avoide the motorway.

The incident happened shortly after midday between junction 12 and 14.

The motorway was completely closed as emergency crews deal with the incident - the westbound carriageway has now re-opened.

Cheshire Police has confirmed that two people involved in the collision have died.

Cheshire Police is temporarily re-opening one lane of the eastbound carriageway to relieve motorists who have been trapped since the accident happened.

It will then be closed again for several hours as accident investigators carry out their work.

A diversion from junction 14 is now in place with drivers advised to use the 'black solid diamond' taking them back onto the motorway at junctioin 12 via the southbound A5117 and northbound A56.

A Highways Agency spokesman said: "The route is already busy and has a height restriction in place affecting lorries.

"The Highways Agency is advising drivers to totally avoid the eastbound M56 by delaying journeys or seeking an alternative route."