Delays continue after twelve people injured in M1 minibus crash

Eleven passengers and the driver were hurt in the crash, which happened on the slip road from the M1 southbound carriageway onto the M62, near Lofthouse.

It is believed that only one vehicle was involved.

Police said five of the men suffered minor injuries.

Two of the seven who were seriously hurt were believed to be in a critical condition last night.

The occupants of the minibus are understood to be men in their 20s and 30s from the Rochdale area.

The injured were taken to Leeds General Infirmary and Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield by helicopter and ambulances.

Police said the incident happened at about 1.50pm and that the minibus had overturned on the grass verge on the slip road.

Emergency services including police, fire and ambulance attended the scene.

One lane was closed on the southbound carriageway of the M1, but was reopened shortly before 4.30pm.

The slip road onto the M62 at junction 42 remained closed last night and there were long tailbacks.

Police warned that delays were expected for several hours because of the road closure.

A West Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said: "Eleven passengers and the driver of the minibus have suffered injuries. Seven have serious injuries and five have minor injuries.

West Yorkshire Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident.

Anyone who witnessed the collision or who has any information about it is asked to contact West Yorkshire Police on 0845 60 60 606.