THE A417 between the Air Balloon and Cowley roundabouts remains closed following an earlier collision.

The incident took place at 8.45am near to the turn off for Birdlip.

Two cars - a Subaru and a BMW - were involved in a head on collision.

The Subaru was being driven by a woman, who had two small children in the vehicle with her. None of them are seriously injured.

The BMW's only occupant was the woman driver. She had to be cut from the vehicle by fire crews and has been taken to hospital, where her injuries are being assessed.

Traffic in the area is extremely congested and motorists are asked to avoid the area altogether. Anyone stuck in the traffic already is asked to remain patient and follow the instructions of police officers on the scene.

Any witnesses who have not yet spoken to police should ring 101 quoting incident number 68 of March 30.