THREE children and a 45-year-old woman were killed in a 'tragic' crash on the A34 last night.

An 11-year-old boy, 11-year-old girl,  13-year-old boy, and the woman died at the scene after four lorries and four cars collided shortly after 5pm yesterday between the West and East Isley junctions.

All four were from Bedfordshire and are thought to have been in the same car.

A man was airlifted to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford where he is still being treated for serious injuries.

Another man and a teenage boy were taken to the Royal Berkshire Hospital with minor injuries and have since been discharged.

Chief inspector Henry Parsons, head of the joint operations unit for roads policing, said: "Our thoughts are with anyone affected by this tragedy.

"Can I ask anyone who witnessed the collision, including anyone travelling on the southbound carriageway who saw anything they believe is significant, to contact police.

"Anyone who has any information which could assist the investigation should call the 24-hour Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101 quoting URN 1109 10/8."

The dual carriageway has reopened in both directions after the crash on the northbound lane, which reopened at 6.30am.

The southbound carriageway opened last night.

A 30-year-old from Andover has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has been bailed until October 5.