Thousands of motorists are stuck in traffic as major motorway roadworks get underway.

Work on a £2million project to prevent corrosion on the Coopers Hill viaduct on the M23 has led to three lanes being shut which is causing major delays.

The roadworks has meant that a contraflow is in operation between junctions 8 and 9 leading to delays of up to 40 minutes and tailbacks all the way back to Crawley.

Highways Agency bosses are advising motorists hoping to get to Gatwick to give themselves plenty of time to make their flights or seek alternative transport.

The works first started on September 15 with one lane closure but the more extensive closures will be in place until October 15 and the project in total will be completed in about six weeks.