Police slam drivers for failing to stop after huge crash on M1 near Meadowhall

Police released a shocking photo yesterday (April 19) showing the aftermath of the huge motorway collision, in which motorists were slammed for failing to stop as the clean-up operation took place between junctions 34 and 35 on April 17.

The crash involving a HGV and a caravan left traffic at a standstill, after lanes were closed while the force dealt with the incident, creating huge tailbacks.

While officers from South Yorkshire Police’s operational support unit said that thankfully only ‘minor’ injuries had been sustained in the crash, they warned those that drove through the aftermath of the collision would be fined for ignoring the closed lane signs.

In a Facebook post, the force wrote: “We would like to offer our less than sincere apologies to those very important people that seemed to think the red ‘X’ system was being used to keep a lane open for them and them alone to continue their journey unimpeded.

"Obviously in your case, we are quite happy to use the eyes in the back our heads to make sure that we can go home in one piece.

"These very important people will be receiving a letter of apology in the next few days to their home address – it will have the words ‘Central Ticket Office’ on it to help you identify it.”

Officers thanked the ‘vast majority’ of motorists who observed the lane closures during the clean-up operation.

Man handed £10,000 fine for organising illegal gathering with hundreds of people outside Shirebrook Leisure Centre

Motorbike rider in 'serious condition' after crashing into wall on rural North East Derbyshire road

Derbyshire woman jailed for sexually assaulting 12-year-old boy

A message from Phil Bramley, Derbyshire Times Editor

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper.