A car transporter on fire blocked the Chatham-bound carriageway of Blue Bell Hill tonight causing widespread tailbacks.

The incident was between the Chatham and Maidstone turn-off of the M20 at J6 and the Chatham turn-off of the M2 at J3.

Kent Highways warned of long delays in the area as motorists struggled to get home in the rush-hour.

A spokesman said: "A Kent County Council representative is en route to assess carriageway damage and assist with debris clearance."

He warned: "Please allow extra time for your journey."

A police spokesman said: "We were called by Kent Fire and Rescue Service just after 5pm to help deal with a car transporter on fire on a live lane on the Chatham-bound carriageway of the A229 at Chatham.

"Officers attended to assist and a lane closure was put in place while the fire was extinguished."

He said no injuries were reported and the lane was reopened at 6pm.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service said they received several calls around 5pm about a Ford Transit car carrier on fire on the A229.

A spokesman said: "Two fire engines were sent and firefighters used a hose-reel jet and compressed air foam to quickly bring the blaze under control."

Police were in attendance for traffic control purposes and highways officials said it took until nearly 8pm before traffic cleared.