M6 closed in both directions over 'police incident', prompting huge tailbacks

Queues for miles due to man standing on the wrong side of bridge

Queues stretch down the M6 following a police incident. (Highways England)

One of Britain’s busiest motorways was closed in both directions causing huge tailbacks after a police incident.

Highways England said the M6 had been shut at J10 near Wolverhampton, before announcing the closures were "in the process of being removed" shortly before midday.

A West Midlands police spokesperson said: "A man who was standing on the wrong side of bridge railings above Junction 10 of the M6 has safely come down.

"He has been detained under the mental health act & will now receive appropriate support. We would like to thank you for your patience."

Police said earlier: "Officers were alerted at just before 6.40am and specialist staff are at the scene to try and resolve the matter safely.

"This has led to significant delays on the motorway and we apologise for this inconvenience. However, our focus always has to be safety of the public."

The spokesperson added that a specialist negotiator attended the scene.

Traffic was diverted via the exit and entry slip roads in an “up and over” closure, with 90 minute delays in both directions.

Thousands of football and rugby fans were caught up in the traffic, with many Wolves and Manchester City fans attempting to get to Molineux for today’s 12.30pm kick off along with others heading south to Wembley for the rugby league challenge cup final between Catalan Dragons and Warrington.

The Highways Agency later said: "Closures in the process of being removed on #M6 both directions in the WestMidlands at J10 #Walsall #Wolverhampton. This will take a little more time, and there are long delays on approaches, be aware if travelling that way, inc. for @ManCity @Wolves @wolvesrl @DragonsOfficiel."

Traffic was also being held on the M5 southbound in the West Midlands due to a traffic collision between Halesowen and Bromsgrove.