A police investigation is under way after a body was found on the M5 carriageway in Gloucestershire.

The motorway has been closed in both directions between J11a and J12 while the body is recovered from the scene.

Follow the latest updates on the motorway closure in our M5 traffic live blog.

The incident was first reported to Gloucestershire Constabulary shortly before 4.10am this morning (October 30).

A serious incident investigation is now taking place and the road is likely to be closed for several hours.

Police have warned motorists to expect significant disruption while officers attempt to establish the circumstances of the death.

A police spokesperson said: "Officers have closed the M5 between junction 11A at Brockworth and junction 12 for Quedgeley after a person was found dead on the carriageway.

"The incident was reported shortly before 4.10am today (October 30).

"Officers attended the scene, on the southbound carriageway around a mile north of Gloucester Services,  and have closed both sides of the motorway while the body is recovered and a serious incident investigation takes place.

"Diversions have been put in place but significant disruption is expected this morning and is likely to last for a number of hours while police continues its work at the scene and establishes the circumstances.

"Anyone who may have information but hasn't spoken to police should call 101 and quote incident 34 of October 30."

Yesterday, a motorcyclist died on the M5 after a crash near the M4 interchange which closed the road for several hours.

In other traffic and travel news, a plan has been announced to ban all diesel vehicles from part of Bristol, police have released the latest mobile speed camera locations for Bristol and beyond, and there is a warning of heavy traffic and potential delays on the M5 later this week due to a major event.
