The scene on the M61 southbound Pic: HennaSheth

Anyone heading southbound on the M61 is being warned of long delays after a crash involving a police car.

A police officer has been hurt after a high speed chase down the motorway – beginning near Blackpool – ended up with the BMW X5 service vehicle in the central reservation and flipped over.

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The Lancashire Police car was pursuing a Vauxhall Vectra – which is still on the run.

The M61 near Rivington Srvices remains closed after the crash at 5.30pm on Monday (3 October).

The police vehicle attempted to get the Vectra to stop, but during the manoeuvre collided with the reservation and overturned. One driver who was going by described the incident as ‘terrifying’.

The officer driving is being assessed for his injuries but police said there were not thought to be life-threatening.

Read more: Pensioner hurt after crash in Ingol

A police spokeswoman said: “We are advising motorists to avoid the area and to expect delays whilst an investigation takes place. We will let you know when it has been re-opened. Thanks for your continued patience.”

The pursuit began in Alfred Street, Blackpool at 4.50pm today after a collision between the Vectra and a Bentley.

POlice are still hunting the Vectra and its driver, which has the registration ML07 EBF, as it made off from the scene with three men on board. Anyone who sees the car is asked to call police on 101.