SEVERE delays on the anti-clockwise M25 yesterday (Monday, 27 January) were caused by a three-vehicle crash in the left hand Dartford Tunnel, that left five people injured.

Dealing with the initial incident and clearing the crash site took several hours and with all traffic routed through the other tunnel at peak time, tracking backed up as far as junction 4. Passage through the queue took upwards of two hours for some drivers, though both tunnels became available around 5pm, allowing speedier passage as the tailback gradually dissipated.

An Essex police statement said: "Three vehicles, two lorries and a van, were involved in the collision. Four people were left with minor injuries and a fifth sustained a serious but not life-threatening or life-changing injury.

"All five were left in the care of the ambulance service."