THE M56 eastbound has re-opened following a four-car crash.

Two trapped casualties have been rescued by firefighters and taken to hospital.

All lanes have now re-opened.

Severe delays are reported and there is still heavy congestion on the motorway.

The crash happened at 5.20am this morning, Monday, between junction 11 and 12.

A spokesman for Cheshire police said: “Officers attended the scene and found there had been a collision between four cars.

“Fire and ambulance were called to the scene and two people were taken to hospital.

“Their injuries are not believed to be life threatening.”

The road closure was lifted shortly after 8am.

Firefighters from Runcorn, Powey Lane and Ellesmere Port dealt with the incident.