M1 closed as family injured in horror crash and London Paddington train station shuts to leave passengers stranded
Hundreds of thousands of people are now facing travel woes as they make their way home for Christmas today
COMMUTERS face long delays this morning after a horror crash on the M1 left one man fighting for his life.
A further five people were injured in the horror smash between junctions 12 and 13 shortly after 2.30 this morning.
Hundreds of thousands of motorists now face travel woes as they try to make it home for Christmas today.
The critical man, who is in his 20s, was rushed to St Mary's Hospital in Paddington after suffering a head injury.
Drivers heading into London and Luton airport have been warned to expect severe delays.
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The southbound remain closed this morning and a diversion is in place.
The northbound stretch of the motorway has reopened, but only in two lanes.
Bedfordshire Police are investigating the accident.
A Highways England spokesman said: "A signed diversion route is in place and drivers planning to travel to Luton airport are advised to allow extra time and to plan their journeys.
“Traffic for London is advised to use the A14/A1 and drivers heading towards the Midlands are being advised to use the M40.”
A spokeswoman for Bedfordshire police said: "Several people were injured and have been taken to hospital for treatment.
"Two people are thought to have suffered life-threatening injuries while a number of others are being treated for less serious injuries."
The news comes as train travellers hoping to leave London for the west had their plans scuppered as Paddington station shut.
No trains were operating in or out of the station from today until Thursday owing work to build Crossrail.
The cancellations will cause havoc for those trying to get to and from Heathrow airport, with both regular and express services affected.
A technical fault in the Eurotunnel is also leading to delays for those trying to head to the continent for the holidays.
Strikes will again hit Southern and Gatwick Express services over the New Year. Around 3.5million people set off yesterday, crowding roads, railways and airports.
Travel may be worsened by the weather, with 90mph gusts and heavy rain as Storm Conor hits.
Yellow Met Office wind warnings have been issued for northern England and southern Scotland.
The RAC's Pete Williams said: "Strong winds and heavy rain have increased the risk of travellers being stranded for Christmas.
"We've increased patrols for Christmas Day due to expected disruption."
Councils are on alert to set up respite centres in community buildings.
A Met Office spokesman added: "With the amber warning in place be careful of high-sided vehicles and winds and take care travelling in difficult driving conditions."
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