A lorry fire caused long delays on a motorway and in surrounding towns.

Traffic was held on the M2 after the incident on the coastbound carriageway at around 2.50pm, just after Junction 5 for Maidstone, Sittingbourne, and Sheppey.

There had also been a crash on the A249 between Detling Showground and Junction 5 of the M2, which was being used as a diversion for the M2 traffic.

The M2 was closed between Junction 6 and Junction 5, but the London-bound carriageway was re-opened yesterday, and the eastbound carriageway re-opened overnight after repairs to the carriageway.

Seven fire engines and a bulk water carrier were in attendance and crews wearing breathing apparatus used compressed air foam to extinguish the flames.

Police and National Highways were also in attendance.

Surrounding towns had been affected by the delays and build-ups.

Traffic through the streets of Sittingbourne was slow moving, as reported at 5.35pm, as a result of the ignited vehicle with some caught reporting it has taken more than two hours to drive 16 miles.

Rainham was been badly hit with one motorist saying it took him 20 minutes to get through Bowaters roundabout. There are long queues at the approach to the high street.

Drivers were advised to use an alternative route.