A SERIOUS crash on Wigton Road has seen the road closed for much of the day, with attendance by police, fire and air ambulance crews.

The incident occurred near the Westrigg junction just after 3pm.

Eyewitnesses said it was a collision involving a van and a motorcycle, but this has not been officially confirmed.

Wigton Road was closed to traffic not long after the school day ended at the adjacent Richard Rose Morton Academy.

Parents of pupils at the school have this evening been emailed by the school.

The school has offered extra support tomorrow for any pupils who witnessed the crash - and has been praised by parents on social media for its response.

 

In a statement earlier this afternoon, a spokesperson for Cumbria Constabulary said: "Emergency services are currently at the scene of a collision on Wigton Road, Carlisle.

"Motorists are expected to experience delays as a result of the collision, reported just after 3pm.

"Drivers are asked to please avoid the area if possible," they said.

News and Star: HELICOPTER: The air ambulance at the sceneHELICOPTER: The air ambulance at the scene

"Road closures are now in place on Wigton Road at Westrigg Road and the A595 roundabout at the edge of the city."

A spokesperson for Great North Air Ambulance Service said: "Our critical care team were activated at 3.13pm to reports of a road traffic collision in Carlisle. They arrived on scene at 3.24pm."