Lorry fire closes part of the M5 ahead of half-term getaway – live updates

Part of the M5 was completely closed for several amid a "serious" lorry fire, with smoke billowing over the motorway as drivers face significant delays. All lanes were closed between junction 22 at Burnham-on-Sea, and junction 23 at Puriton in Somerset since 9.35am.

The southbound carriageway remains closed as our teams work to fully extinguish the fire; however, the northbound carriageway has now been reopened, with a reduced speed limit in place. It affect anyone travelling from south Wales to south-west England as the majority of schools start the half-term break.

National Highways South West has advised motorists to remain in their vehicles for safety. Tailbacks along the stretch are reaching back nearly an hour.