EMERGENCY services are on the scene after a crash blocked a busy road.

One person has become trapped as a result of the collision.

At 5.40pm a Sussex Police spokesman said: "Two vehicles collided on the southbound A24 at Dial Post just before 4.15pm today.

"One person was mechanically trapped and was being released.

"Traffic congestion has resulted.

"Emergency services are at the the scene and drivers have been advised to avoid the area if possible for the time being.

"No further information is available at present."

Fire crews have reinforced this warning to drivers to avoid the area.

A West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "The A24 southbound is currently closed between Buck Barn and Dial Post following a crash.

"Crews from Horsham and Worthing are currently at the scene along with Sussex Police and South East Coast Ambulance Service.

"Please avoid the area for the time being."

At 6pm the service provided an update.

The spokseman said: "The A24 southbound remains closed between Buck Barn and Dial Post following a crash.

"It is expected to be closed for a considerable time.

"Drivers are advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes."

An AA spokesman said: "The road is partially blocked and there is queueing traffic due to accident.

"Two vehicles were involved on the A24 Southbound at Worthing Road.

"Affecting traffic heading towards Washington.

"There are severe delays of eleven minutes and these delays are increasing.

"The average speed is ten mph."