A MAN in his 20s suffered “life-changing injuries” in a crash which closed the M5 through Somerset on Thursday afternoon (October 4).

The motorway was closed in both directions after the incident, on the southbound carriageway between Weston-Super-Mare and Burnham-on-Sea.

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said the incident was reported at around 1.35pm and involved a motorbike and a van.

“We were called at 1.37pm yesterday (October 3) to reports of a serious collision involving a motorbike and van on the southbound carriageway of the M5 between junctions 21 (Weston-super-Mare) and 22 (Burnham-on-Sea),” they said.

“Emergency services attended the scene and the motorcyclist – who is a man in his 20s – was taken to hospital by air ambulance. His injuries are considered to be life-changing and his family have been informed.

“The motorway was initially closed in both directions, before the northbound carriageway was reopened at 3pm.

“Vehicle recovery and police collision investigation work at the scene was completed by approximately 5.50pm, enabling National Highways to carry out necessary repairs to the southbound carriageway before it was later reopened.”

Anyone who saw the crash or has information which could help the investigation should contact police on 101, quoting incident number 5224260872.