SPEED checks will be carried out along the M5 between junctions 6 and 4a.

Drivers have been warned that variable speed limits may be in place and the speed checks will be a permanent feature on that stretch of the motorway.

The announcement follows a series of crashes which saw motorway lanes closed along this stretch twice within 24 hours.

However, a spokesman for the Safer Roads Partnership in Warwickshire and West Mercia said the speed checks were not related to crashes but were a way to ensure a smooth flow of traffic along what is now a 'smart motorway'.

Vicki Bristow, communications manager at the Safer Roads Partnership for Warwickshire Police and West Mercia Police said: "Speed enforcement is in place on this particular section of the M5 to ensure traffic is moving smoothly through our area and region.

"In cases where a variable speed limit is in place a speed limit inside a red circle will be displayed on overhead gantries and is legally enforceable.

"These limits can be changed at certain times to help manage the traffic flow.

"We’re urging all motorists to be aware these are now in place as they travel through the area and to comply with the speed limits."

If there are no signs to the contrary, the national speed limit will apply.

Highways England have been developing sections of the M5 motorway as ‘smart motorway' in order to increase the capacity, reduce congestion and to improve journey times.

The 'smart motorway' has been the subject of much debate among Worcester News readers recently.

Many were frustrated by the initial length of the roadworks to implement the changes, while high-profile crashes have also caused concern.

Yesterday, a lorry overturned and caught fire at junction 4 causing the motorway to be closed in both directions.

This was just hours after another lorry overturned near junction 5, Droitwich, on Tuesday causing all four lanes to be closed northbound.