MOTORISTS experienced major delays on the M61 while emergency services negotiated with a woman on the bridge.
The woman has been brought down to safety.
Police, North West Ambulance Service and fire crews from Bolton Central were called to the scene.
Vehicles were at standstill due to the motorway being shut off in both directions at Junction 4 for more than one hour.
The road has since been fully reopened, however there are still long delays.
J4 M61 is now open again it will take some time for traffic to start flowing. Some drivers have taken it upon themselves to drive in the wrong direction up the slip road at J6. This has now caused more issues.
— North West Motorway Police (@NWmwaypolice) August 25, 2019
North West Motorway Police tweeted at 7pm: "J4 M61 traffic being taken off in both directions due to an ongoing police incident."
Drivers also hit out at a group of teenagers who were playing football in the middle of the road while the traffic was stationary.
From CCTV in the control room here, we are aware of numerous people outside of their vehicle, playing on the opposite carriageway. Although the southbound is CLOSED, this is extremely dangerous and we stronglly advise you remain with your vehicle. @gmptraffic @NWmwaypolice
— Highways England (@HighwaysNWEST) August 25, 2019
There were tailbacks to Junction 6 for Horwich on the southbound carriageway, and to Junction 3 for Kearsley Spur on the northbound carriageway.
Firefighters from Bolton Central were called to a bridge over the M61 at Junction 4 shortly after 7pm. They remained at the scene for about 30 minutes.
If you have been affected by any of the issues raised, call Samaritans on 116 123.
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