M25 chaos as coach bursts into flames on packed motorway during rush hour
Drivers are being warned of traffic misery on the M25 after a coach burst into flames.
There are currently three lanes closed on a section of the motorway with motorists being warned of an hour delay above normal travel time.
One lane has been reopened but the other three remain closed.
The coach fire[1] happened between junction 8 at Reigate and junction 7 on the anti-clockwise stretch of the M25 just after 8am.
National Highways said on Twitter[2]: "Lanes 1, 2and 3 (of 4) are closed on the #M25[3] anti-clockwise between J8 #Reigate[4] and J7 #M23[5] due to a coach fire. Emergency services are en route to scene. Delays are beginning to build. Take care when passing the scene and allow extra journey time."
Inrix, the traffic data company, said: "M25 anticlockwise blocked, stationary traffic due to coach fire from J8 A217 Brighton Road (Reigate) to J7 M23."
A Surrey Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "We have been called to a coach on fire on the hard should of the M25, anti-clockwise between j7 & j8. We currently have three pumps in attendance, plus water carrier and unimog. The carriageway has been closed while we deal with the incident. Please avoid the area."