13,000 vehicles in 12-mile M4 jam

Thousands of drivers were stuck in a 12-mile tailback on the M4 today after an accident near Slough.

A number of cars collided between junctions six and seven on the eastbound carriageway at 8.30am, trapping an estimated 13,000 vehicles in a jam.

The tailback stretched to junction 10 near Reading, said AA Roadwatch.

Westbound traffic was also delayed as drivers slowed to look at the accident. Neighbouring roads, including the A322 and the M3, were clogged by drivers attempting to find escape routes.

Police reopened the M4 at 9.30 and the tailbacks cleared shortly after 10.