M1 crash: Two lorry drivers die in major collision near Bedford

Motorway closed for hours in both directions after HGVs collide

(Rui Vieira/PA)

Two lorry drivers have died in a major crash on the M1 near Bedford, police say.

The HGVs crashed on the motorway’s southbound carriageway at about 6.40am on Saturday, Bedfordshire Police said.

Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene. Their next of kin have been informed.

The southbound carriageway remains closed between junction 12 at Flitwick and 13 near Milton Keynes while police carry out their investigation.

Motorists have been advised to avoid the area and to find alternative routes.

Police are appealing for anyone with dashcam footage or information to come forward.

Sergeant Aaron Murphy, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Road Policing Unit, said: “This was a serious collision which has taken the lives of two people.

“We are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has dashcam footage from around that time so we can piece together the circumstances which led to this tragic incident.

“I’d also like to thank the public for their co-operation and patience during the recovery operation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting Operation Effervescence.