ALL lanes on the M56 in Cheshire have reopened after more than 12 hours this morning, Thursday.

Two lanes were closed on the westbound carriageway yesterday afternoon due to a defect on the road surface.

Emergency repairs were carried out by National Highways engineers between junction 14 for Stanlow and 12 for Runcorn.

Work to repair a manhole cover has now been completed, with all lanes and the entry slip road from junction 12 now reopen.

The closure caused long delays yesterday, with congestion stretching back around five miles to junction 10 for Stretton.

Reports estimated that delays were in excess of one hour on top of normal travel time.