Drivers are facing delays this afternoon after a horsebox broke down on a motorway – leading to the closure of two lanes.

Traffic was stopped in both directions on the M3 near while “horse transfer” was carried out – bringing motorists to a standstill.

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The incident took place between Basingstoke and Hook, junctions 5 and 6.

Drivers on the M3 were held up for a "horse transfer".

placeholder image — Drivers on the M3 were held up for a "horse transfer".

A National Highways statement said: “Traffic is stopped on the #M3 in both directions between J6 (#Basingstoke) and J5 (#Hook). This is for a horse transfer due to a broken down horsebox. Delays building in both directions. Please be patient and remain in your vehicle.”

Traffic was released at around 4.00pm, but heavy congestion remains following the incident.