Driver dies after crash on M74 south of Lockerbie

A DRIVER has died after a crash on the M74 south of Lockerbie, leading to the closure of a section of the motorway.

The accident happened on the northbound carriageway between Junction 19 at Ecclefechan and Junction 20 Eaglesfield at about 12.30am today.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said the male driver of a pick-up truck, which was towing a caravan, died after the vehicle collided with an articulated lorry.

Police Scotland said debris from the crash was scattered across both carriageways, subsequently damaging two other HGVs.

A spokeswoman said officers hope to have the southbound section open by around midday, but could not say when the northbound side will be cleared.

Motorists have been warned to expect delays and Traffic Scotland said a diversion route was being set up via the B7076.