There were lengthy delays on the M5 in Somerset after a crash closed the northbound carriageway near Taunton.

The Highways Agency reported that typical journeys were being delayed by more than an hour.

The accident came as the South West was blasted by heavy rain and "unseasonal" 45mph winds on Friday afternoon.

The motorway was blocked northbound between Junction 24 and 23.

While all lanes later re-opened, lengthy delays remained between Junction 26 at Wellington and Junction 23 at Highbridge.