THE M4 in Reading has reopened after a fear for welfare incident led to police closing the motorway.

The incident, centred around the well-being of a young woman, was safely resolved by Thames Valley Police, causing significant traffic delays and congestion.

Traffic officers responded to the scene at approximately 12.20pm between Junctions 10 and 11 near Reading.

A spokesman from t he force said: "We were called to an incident on the M4.

"This was a fear for welfare for a young woman, and was safely resolved." 

During this time, the National Highways devised alternative routes instructing road users to follow specific diversion symbols on eastbound and westbound road signs.

The thoroughfare was re-established by 1.41pm, allowing motorists to traverse freely once more.

However, delays up to 40 minutes were expected alongside two and a half miles of congestion.

Drivers who planned on utilising the route were advised to allow extra journey time or, if possible, to plan an alternative route or delay their travel due to the residual effects of the incident.

The police force thanked the public for their understanding during this time, asking commuters to allow time for the delays to ease.