There were long delays for motorists on the M5 stretching back to Burnham-On-Sea on Thursday after a horsebox overturned near Weston.

The horse was successfully freed from the vehicle which was left on its side down an embankment, as pictured here.

Avon Fire Service said the horse was removed after a “protracted” rescue with the help of a vet and specialist fire service crews.

The horsebox left the road shortly after 1pm after a collision with a passing vehicle. Several people inside were rescued.

The accident caused over six miles of tailbacks on the northbound carriageway between junction 21 at Weston and junction 20 for Clevedon, with queues stretching back to Burnham-On-Sea.

A Highways England spokesman said: “An overturned horsebox led to the closure of two lanes. Drivers were advised to leave at junction 22 for Burnham-On-Sea and then follow the A38.”

An eyewitness said there appeared to have been a Land Rover Discovery involved in the crash.

Pictured: The horse being rescued on Thursday (pics James Tresadern)

 
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