Traffic chaos on the M25 in Kent has finally started to ease, although tolls at the Dartford Crossing will not be reinstated until 6am on Saturday.

A smash, involving a lorry and car, and a large fuel spillage led to the closure of the tunnel on the anti-clockwise carriageway this afternoon.

It caused severe problems with drivers reporting delays of two or three hours, and queues stretching back to J4 for Orpington.

The Highways Agency decided to temporarily remove charges north-bound at the Dartford Crossing to ease the severe congestion.

A spokesman said: "The Highways Agency is doing all it possibly can to help keep traffic moving.

"The incident, which happened at around 2.30pm, involved an HGV and a car and led to a large diesel spillage at the exits of the tunnels.

"All lanes have reopened, but the charges will remain suspended northbound until congestion has eased."

It announced at 9.40pm that tolls would not be reinstated tonight.

Traffic had also built up in Dartford town centre and around Bluewater where drivers struggled to get out of the car park.

Motorists on social media are complained of stationary traffic and long delays.

Drivers were urged to consider alternative routes as traffic was also building up in surrounding areas, including Dartford town centre.

The accident happened at about 2.30pm near the Dartford Crossing toll booths.

It forced the closure of the tunnel until about 4.30pm while the fuel spillage was cleaned up.