Dramatic pictures show the aftermath of a lorry fire which shut the M2 this morning.

Traffic between Junction 6 for Faversham and Junction 5 for Sittingbourne and the Stockbury Roundabout was halted as the blaze destroyed the vehicle at around 4am.

The M2 was closed in both directions following the fire, which required three engines and police to attend, and stayed shut for several hours for resurfacing work. It reopened coast-bound at about 5pm but the London-bound carriageway remained shut until just before 11pm.

Vehicles were forced to turn round on the coast-bound carriageway after hours of being stuck in stationary traffic.

The burnt out vehicle, which left a smouldering mess after being extinguished, has now been recovered.

The coast-bound carriageway was temporarily reopened but later closed again while fire crews work to extinguish the flames.

Three fire engines and a bulk water were sent, as well as a crew from a Technical Rescue Unit.

Emergency services deal with a lorry fire which closed the M2 between Faversham and Sittingbourne

KCC Highways said earlier: "Emergency services are in attendance and Highways England have advised the road is likely to remain closed for several hours.

"Please use the signed diversion route: Follow the solid square diversion symbol.

"Please allow extra time for your journey and expect delays in the area."

The A2 is also closed at Faversham due to emergency work to fix a gas leak.

Read more: All the latest news from Sittingbourne

Read more: All the latest news from Faversham