A CRASH between a taxi and a van partly closed the A23 northbound, causing two miles of queues.

At least one lane was closed with queueing traffic due to the accident, which happened just before 9.30am today.

The crash happened between Handcross and Pease Pottage.

A West Sussex Fire and Rescue spokeswoman said: "We have released two people using heavy rescue equipment, who are being assessed by ambulance crews."

Two fire engines were sent, one from Crawley and one from Haywards Heath.

An ambulance spokesman said: "We sent two ambulance crews to the scene.

"A man and a woman were injured. Everyone was concious and breathing. The woman suffered a knee injury.

"Both were taken to East Surrey Hospital for further checks and treatment."

He said one of the car's, a taxi, had hit the central reservation.

A Sussex Police spokesman said: "The driver and passenger in the taxi reported minor injuries.

"The road was partially closed until about 11am, while the vehicles were recovered and the scene made safe."