Firefighters have been working to extinguish a bin lorry fire on the M25 in south Essex.

On arrival at 10am today (May 30), four crews reported that a bin lorry was 100 per cent alight on the hard shoulder between Junction 28 and 27.

Crews worked to extinguish the fire and are now trying to access the compacted rubbish inside the lorry to extinguish hotspots. 

Three lanes are closed between junction 28 and junction 27, with queues almost back to junction 30 (A13).

Clockwise is open but traffic remains slow back to junction 26.

Station Manager Howard Midwood said: “Due to the amount of fuel and liquid leaking from the vehicle, the road is currently closed between junction 28-27 but we are working as quickly as we can with highways to clear the road so we can re-open one lane and get people moving.

“We expect the other three lanes to be closed for several hours while a clean up and recovery takes place.

“Thank you to everyone in the traffic for your patience while we deal with this incident, we know it’s frustrating having to wait but your safety is our priority. 

“Crews have done a fantastic job to contain the fire and keep our public safe alongside colleagues in London Fire Brigade. 

“If you can avoid the area, please do and again, thank you to everyone waiting for your patience. We’re moving as fast as we can to get you moving again.”