M25 closed after pedestrian in his 50s hit and killed by lorry – with standstill lasting hours

THE M25 closed after a pedestrian in his 50s was hit and killed by a lorry - as standstill queues lasted hours.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene following the collision, which occurred near junction 4 at just before 9.45am, according to Kent Police.

The force added that his death was not being treated as suspicious.

The motorway was closed between junctions three and four near Orpington, Kent in the clockwise direction following the collision, with National Highways predicting the closure would last "into the afternoon".

It has since reopened.

A spokesperson for Kent Police said: "Kent Police was called at 9.45am on 18 December, after a pedestrian was struck by a lorry on the clockwise M25 near junction 4.

"Officers attended, along with other emergency services, and a man aged in his 50s was confirmed deceased at the scene.

"His next of kin have been informed. There are no suspicious circumstances, and a file will be prepared for the coroner.

"The motorway has since reopened."

Following the crash, drivers attempting to take the route were turned around - with a diversion put in place via the A20 and A224 via Orpington.