Part of the M20 was closed for nearly seven hours after a lorry fire.

The HGV went up in flames on the London-bound M20 between Junction 2 and Junction 1 just before 8am.

At one stage two lanes were closed while emergency services dealt with the aftermath.

At 11am there were reports of four-mile tailbacks with traffic taking at least half an hour to get passed the obstruction.

A police spokesman said: "Officers were called at 7.56am to a lorry fire on the hard shoulder of the M20 London bound, between junctions 2 and 1.

"The road is currently closed in that direction."

Police have since said there will be delays for the next three to four hours, involving intermittent road closures of short durations.

They hope to have the road clear by 2pm and motorists are being urged to avoid the area.

Firefighters were called at 7.56am and two fire engines are using a bulk water carrier while traffic is being held.

Highways England also tweeted pictures of the scene as firefighters brought the blaze under control.

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They added: "#M20 Londonbound between Jnc 2 #Wrotham & Jnc 1 #Swanley there is still a Lane 1 & 2 closure (Lane 3 running) in place following an earlier lorry fire.

"Clear up work is in process. Large amount of rubbish requires clearing."

All lanes eventually reopened at around 2.40pm.

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