THERE are miles of congestion on the M6 this afternoon (Thursday, May 26).

Two lanes on the southbound carriageway are closed between junctions 19 and 18 after a van fire earlier this morning.

Although the incident was dealt with promptly and nobody was injured in the fire, damage was caused to motorway.

Chester and District Standard: The van fire on the slip road of junction 18 on the M6The van fire on the slip road of junction 18 on the M6

Motorists are being advised to allow for up to 45 minute delays as highways officers carry out emergency repairs.

National Highways say there are around five miles of congested traffic leading to the closure.

It is not known as of yet how long the two lane closure will be in place.