Hours of delays are expected on the Dartford Crossing this evening after two multi-vehicle pile-ups brought traffic to a standstill.

It is believed that a serious crash has taken place between junction 1b and junction 2 involving a lorry, a van and a motorbike and the road was closed until at least 9pm tonight.

Shortly after the first crash, an Essex-based coach carrying schoolchildren was involved in another smash on the M25, as the video and image shows.

The collision involved two HGVs and three cars at junction 4 of the motorway on the anti-clockwise carriageway.

No children or staff on the coach were injured, though the condition of the other drivers is not known at this time.

A spokesman for Kent Police said: "Kent Police was called at around 3pm on Thursday 15 June 2017, regarding a serious collision involving a lorry, van and motorbike on the Essex-bound carriageway of the A282 prior to the Dartford crossing.

"Police officers and South East Coast Ambulance Service are at the scene where the carriageway has been closed at junction 2 and a diversion is being put in place to allow traffic to re-join the A282 at junction 1B.

"Highways crews are working with Kent Police to free vehicles that are stuck in the queue after junction 2 but prior to the collision.

"Drivers are advised to seek alternative routes."

In regards to the second crash, Kent Police added: "The carriageway has been closed at junction 4 and all traffic is being directed to leave using the slip-road.

"An air ambulance is attending due to injuries reported to one of the drivers. A number of school children and teachers were on the coach but are reported to have no physical injuries. The school, which is outside of Kent, is aware and is updating parents.

"Drivers are advised to expect delays and avoid the area if possible."

There were approximately seven miles of tailbacks starting at junction 1b for the A225 and A296 and stretching back to junction 3 for the M20.