PART of the M20 near Ashford was closed earlier today following a number of accidents.

A total of 13 vehicles caused the standstill at about 6.10am as police, ambulance and two fire crews went to the scene.

According to Kent Police, a car hit the crash barrier between junctions 9 and 10 London-bound at 5.42am, resulting in a minor head injury for one passenger and leaving the 44-year-old driver and a second passenger shaken.

About 15 minutes later a second car went into the barrier and was hit by a lorry.

Minutes later a further 10 cars became involved in the accident.

Two lanes were blocked with motorists standing in the carriageway by their cars.

The passenger with the head injury was taken to Ashford's William Harvey Hospital for stitches.

The motorway was cleared of cars and debris and re-opened by about 7am. The emergency services left the scene at 8.27am.