Lorry englufed by fire on busy motorway causes tailbacks for five miles

A lorry caught fire and sent smoke billowing into the sky on a busy motorway this afternoon, causing tailbacks in the area.

Drivers face long delays on the M60 after the truck went up in flames Police and fire crews were scrambled to the scene as the road was locked down, reports Manchester Evening News.

One image shows the lorry stationary on the hard shoulder, with flames still visible and smoke enveloping the vehicle.

There were reportedly five miles of congestion on the motorway. (Supplied)

Congestion has been building on the M60 anti-clockwise between J16 for Swinton and J15 for Bolton. The National Highways: North-West report that there are five miles of congestion due to the lorry fire.

Greater Manchester Police have been approached for comment.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: "At 5.22pm this afternoon, we received the first of multiple 999 calls reporting an HGV on fire on the hard shoulder of the M60 between junctions 17 and 16.

Police and firefighters are at the scene working closely together to bring the situation under control. The motoroway is closed and the area should be avoided."

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