POLICE have closed part of the M4 in Berkshire following a fatal collision between a heavy goods vehicle and a minibus.

The eastbound carriageway between Junction 14 at Hungerford and 13 at Chieveley is likely to remain closed for several hours.

Two people have been confirmed as fatalities as a result.

Drivers have been advised to avoid the area and take alternative routes.

Two people who were in the minibus sadly died at the scene. 

Three other passengers in the minibus including the driver have been taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Three further passengers received less serious injuries and also attended hospital.

The driver of the HGV was also taken to hospital having received minor injuries. 

South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) confirmed there had been a serious collision involving a lorry and a minibus on the M4 earlier today.

A SCAS spokesman added: "We currently have multiple resources including Thames Valley Air Ambulance at the scene of a serious collision on the M4 eastbound between junctions 14 and 13.

"We are working with Thames Valley Police Roads Policing and Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

"The road is likely to be closed for several hours. Please avoid the area and take alternative routes."

A police spokesman said: “Thames Valley Police is currently on the scene of a fatal road traffic collision in West Berkshire.

“At around 12.20pm today (11/10) there was a collision between a heavy goods vehicle and a minibus.

“Two people who were in the minibus sadly died at the scene. 

“Three other passengers in the minibus including the driver have been taken to hospital with serious injuries.

“Three further passengers received less serious injuries and also attended hospital.

“The driver of the HGV was also taken to hospital having received minor injuries. 

“The M4 eastbound between junction 14 at Hungerford and junction 13 at Chieveley is currently closed. The road closure is likely to remain in place for several hours and drivers are being advised to avoid the area. 

“Diversions are in place but the surrounding roads remain busy.

“The westbound carriageway is now open and traffic is moving.

“Anyone who may have seen what happened or who has dash-cam footage is asked to contact police.

“If you have any information, please call the 24-hour Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101 quoting reference number URN 545 (11/10) or by using ouronline form.”