FIVE people – including two children – have died in a ‘devastating’ crash on the M6.

Four of the people, a man, a woman and two children, all from Glasgow, were in a Toyota involved in the crash with a Skoda, driven by a man from Cambridgeshire.

The horror two-car smash happened just after 4pm on Tuesday on the northbound carriageway near Tebay and led to the road being closed for several hours.

A third child in the Toyota, described as 'young,' was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle with serious injuries. 

Dr Theo Weston, chair of Beep Doctors which was one of the first emergency services to reach the crash said: "Despite the brave actions of bystanders and the efforts of all emergency services, this tragic collision resulted in the loss of several lives.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by this devastating event." 

The crash closed the M6 for 12 hours (pictured: cars leaving the motorway after the diversion was put in place)The crash closed the M6 for 12 hours (pictured: cars leaving the motorway after the diversion was put in place) (Image: Highways England)

Four fire engines from Penrith, Kendal and Shap were sent. Cumbria Fire and Rescue said emergency crews used two breathing apparatus and one hose reel jet. 

A spokesperson from the service said crews were in attendance for 'several hours.'

A section of the M6 from junction 36 to 39 was shut for 12 hours while police carried out an investigation. The force is now appealing for witnesses and confirmed that the families of those involved are being supported by trained officers.  

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Two Great North Air Ambulance helicopters responded, although one was later stood down. A doctor and a paramedic was on board the Cumbria-based helicopter and they arrived at 4.27pm. 

"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with everyone affected by this incident," a spokesperson said. 

MP Tim Farron, whose constituency covers Tebay, called the crash 'beyond heartbreaking.' He added: "I am holding in my prayers those who lost their lives, and their friends and families. I'm also praying for those emergency service workers and others who attended the scenes who will no doubt be deeply affected by this unthinkable tragedy." 

John Murray, the councillor representing Kirkby Stephen and Tebay, called the crash 'dreadful.' 

"We all rely on the M6 and the A66 as key strategic routes for getting anywhere. I think we all owe a huge debt of thanks to all the emergency responders for the way they respond and also feel for them because they have to deal with the most dreadful sights,” he said.

Anyone with information relating to this incident can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it, quoting incident number 146 of 15 October 2024.