Tonight the M5 remains blocked in both directions, following a major incident at Junction 28 (the junction for the A373/B3181 Cullompton).

The incident, say the police “follows concerns for the welfare of a man on the bridge [at junction 28]”.

It’s understood that the man is on the ‘wrong side of the bridge’.

There are about four miles of trapped traffic within the closure on the northbound carriageway.

It’s believed that some drivers have been stuck in this closed section for more than two hours.

Diversions are in place.

However roads around the affected part of the M5 are reported to be very busy and some are at a standstill due to the sheer volume of traffic that is involved.

Northbound there are tailbacks stretching back to J31 (A30 Exminster).

The incident was first reported around 4pm on Friday, December 8.

The incident is ongoing, three hours later.

You are highly recommended to avoid the area if at all possible.