TRAFFIC in both clockwise and anti-clockwise directions on the M25 backed up this afternoon (Wednesday, 13 August) while firefighters dealt with a lorry blaze between junctions 29 and 30.

Crews from Grays (two), Basildon, Brentwood and colleagues from London Fire Brigade and Kent Fire and Rescue Service were in attendance.

The lorry was carrying tyres, which caught alight and produced large amounts of smoke.

The clockwise carriageway is closed and there are long delays on the anticlockwise carriageway.

At 1pm Essex firefighters said: "Please avoid the area if you can and take extra care if you are near the scene."