Oil tanker EXPLODES into sea of flames on M1 with motorway closed both ways

The motorway has been closed in both directions by National Highways as traffic remains stationary.

Firefighters have been tackling the blaze on the hard shoulder, covering the road in foam.

Residents in the area have been told to close their doors and windows while the fire is put out.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "We currently have four fire engines, two water carriers and a foam unit dealing with a vehicle fire on the M1 southbound between J29 and J28.

"The road has been closed in both directions.

"Please avoid the area and seek alternative routes.

"We are receiving a high number of calls from residents around Tibshelf regarding smoke plumes in the area.

"Residents nearby are advised to keep their windows and doors shut while we deal with this incident."

The service said six fire crews from across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire called to the scene.

Traffic monitoring site Inrix said: "M1 in both directions closed, severe delays due to oil tanker fire from J29 A617 (Chesterfield / Mansfield) to J28 A38 (Alfreton / Mansfield).

"Congestion to Southbound is back to J30 (Worksop / Sheffield South) and Northbound is back to J27 (Hucknall / Underwood).

"Surrounding routes around Sutton in Ashfield, Mansfield, Alfreton, Clay Cross and Glapwell are also congested as traffic seeks an alternative."

There are currently delays of approximately 60 minutes in both directions on approach to the closures.