POLICE arrested three people after road workers said they were attacked by an axe-wielding criminal on the motorway.

Highways England confirmed that one of its workers suffered minor injuries in the attack.

The attack took place after a crash on the M5 northbound at Junction 4A (Bromsgrove) on Tuesday night.

West Mercia Police said: “We attended a collision on the M5.

“On arrival recovery workers stated they had been attacked with an axe.

“The vehicle was quickly located and three arrested and knives seized.”

The police force shared a picture on Twitter showing two small knives and a larger blade in a sheath.

A spokesman for Highways England said: "We are aware of the incident involving vehicle recovery workers on the M5 last night and are providing support to the workers that were affected.

"We are also working closely with Worcestershire Police to support their enquiries.”