DRIVERS travelling along the M4 faced long tailbacks after a lorry hit a bridge blocking the carriageway.

The accident yesterday happened yesterday at about 4.30pm on the westbound carriageway just before junction 17 at Chippenham.

The emergency services attended the scene.

The motorway remained open but two lanes were closed and speed restrictions were put in place.

The disruption lasted for about five hours.

Traffic queued for several miles leading up to the accident and motorists were being advised to leave the motorway and seek alternative routes where possible.