Lorry bursts into flames on side of the motorway as terrified drivers watch in horror

Emergency services rushed to the scene on the stretch of motorway linking junction 15 and junction 14.

The incident, which occurred earlier today, transformed the busy route into a car park as drivers found themselves unable to proceed past the burning lorry.

National Highways East confirmed the severity of the situation as the vehicle became completely engulfed by the flames at the roadside.

Authorities swiftly closed three of the four lanes on the southbound carriageway as crews worked to tackle the blaze and secure the area.

Recovery teams have now arrived at the location to begin the process of clearing the stricken vehicle from the roadside.

National Highways East posted an update on social media confirming that recovery personnel had reached the scene to assist with the operation.

Congestion had stretched six miles along the M1 while crews dealt with the blaze.

National Highways East encouraged all motorists to build extra time into their travel plans while the recovery effort remained active.

The situation continues to develop as crews work to fully reopen the carriageway and restore normal traffic flow on this busy stretch of the M1.

It is not known there were any injuries in the incident.

Motorists are being urged to plan extra journey time whilst traffic flow returns to normal.