Hundreds of drivers are stuck in gridlock traffic after an oil spill and a vehicle fire led to rush hour queues.

The A290 Rheims Way is closed in the southbound direction from Old Watling Street to A28 Pin Hill (Wincheap Roundabout) around the Canterbury ring road with jams back to Harbledown.

Knock-on congestion has also been reported around Canterbury and Sturry, with cars in bumper-to-bumper traffic following the fire this afternoon.

A notice issued by Kent Highways said: “ Emergency services in attendance. Long delays are expected in the area with the additional nearby temporary traffic signals on St Stephen's Road.

“Please allow extra time for your journey.”

It is unknown if anyone was hurt as a result of the vehicle fire.

The fire service has been asked for more information.