Motorists were advised to avoid the Medway tunnel after a multi-vehicle crash on the Gillingham-bound side earlier this morning

Kent police say it is believed as many as five cars were involved in the smash and at least two have suffered extensive damage.

The crash happened about a third of the way through the Gillingham bound tunnel at about 8.49am and firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene.

At noon the tunnel was still closed but recovery vehicles took away the smashed up vehicles in the afternoon and the road was reopened soon afterwards.

It is understood one driver was trapped in his vehicle and firefighters used hydraulic cutting equipment to free him from inside.

A minibus was also said to be involved in the crash.

A spokesman for police in Medway said: “A man is thought to have suffered a chest injury and we had requested Kent Fire and Rescue Service to assist at the scene as it was felt he may have to be cut out of his vehicle.

"We have also asked for two more ambulances at the scene.

It is thought some people have serious injuries, but they are not deemed to be life-threatening."