Motorists travelling further afield are being urged to avoid the M25 clockwise this evening after a serious crash.
Essex Police reports all four lanes are blocked following the incident near to the Bell Common tunnel between junction 27 (M11) and junction 26 (Waltham Abbey).
The crash involves a motorcycle and a refuse lorry.
The driver of the dustbin truck has been flown to the Royal London Hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Police say the road will be closed for the next few hours while investigations take place, and have thanked drivers for their patience whilst emergency services attend the scene.
Diversions are in place.
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