THE M4 carriageway has been reopened following a double fatal crash earlier today.

The westbound carriageway was closed during rush hour this morning following the incident between a lorry and a van at junction 17 at Chippenham at about 4.30am.

Two men travelling in the van were pronounced dead at the scene and two other men, also travelling in the van, were taken to Southmead Hospital in Bristol with serious injuries.

A fifth man travelling in the van was taken to the Great Western Hospital in Swindon with minor injuries but has since been released.

A 37-year-old man from Aberdare, who was driving the van, has subsequently been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

Anyone who witnessed the collision is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.