One person is dead and four others have been injured in a crash on the M4.

Emergency services were called to a road traffic collision involving two vehicles on the motorway between junctions 18 (Bath) and 19 (Bristol) at around 1pm today (Tuesday).

The incident involved a lorry and a silver Volkswagen car on the westbound carriageway. The car appears to have sustained significant rear-end damage after being struck by the lorry.

Despite the best efforts of first responders, a person was pronounced dead at the scene. Police have not yet confirmed their age or gender.

“Our thoughts are with their family during this difficult time, they are being offered support by a specialist family liaison officer”, an Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said.

Four others, believed to be occupants of the car, sustained injuries and were taken to hospital.

One person was airlifted to Southmead Hospital in Bristol, the nearest Major Trauma Centre, by Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Wiltshire Air Ambulance also landed at the scene.

Their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening or life-changing.

A collision investigation was carried out at the scene, with the M4 closed westbound until around 8pm.

A force spokesperson added: “We would like to thank the public for their patience and understanding while we have carried necessary investigative work.

“If you witnessed the collision, or have any information or relevant footage which could aid our investigation, please call us.

“If you can help, please call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5224077629, or complete our online appeals form.”