The M1 is experiencing major delays to northbound traffic after a crash between two junctions in Bedfordshire earlier today. The collision, which occurred between Junctions 12 (Flitwick) and 13 (Bedford), prompted a swift response from emergency services. Traffic was brought to a standstill as they worked at the scene. National Highways East issued a warning to drivers on X (formerly Twitter) shortly before 11am, saying: “Traffic has been stopped on the #M1 northbound between J12 #Flitwick and J13 #Bedford due to a collision.” An update followed at 11.34am, confirming: “1 (of) 4 lanes are now OPEN on the #M1 northbound between J12 #Flitwick and J13 #Bedford following a collision. Emergency services continue to work at scene. There are currently delays of 90 mins.” The crash came on the first day of the May Bank Holiday weekend — one of the busiest travel periods of the year, with an estimated 17 million journeys expected across Britain. Friday was forecast to be the peak travel day, with 3 million journeys planned, but today is only slightly behind, with an estimated 2.9 million drivers taking to the roads. RAC Breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: “Although the Easter break was just two weeks ago, our figures suggest this weekend will still be hectic on the roads as millions take advantage of another bank holiday. “This week’s very warm weather may not last right into the weekend, but with lots of daylight hours, there’s still plenty of opportunity to get out and about. “For drivers that have a choice, it’s best to avoid Friday evening as that’s when leisure traffic will clash with commuter journeys.” She also advised motorists to check their tyres and ensure vehicles have the correct levels of oil, coolant, and screen-wash before setting off. The holiday rush has been further fuelled by unseasonably warm weather. The Met Office said Kew Gardens in southwest London recorded a high of 29.3C on Thursday, 1 May — the warmest start to May on record in the UK.