LIVE: M56 shut after lorry bursts into flames with all traffic stopped and emergency services at scene - updates

A lorry has burst into roaring flames on the M56 this evening. All traffic has been stopped on the motorway in both directions due to the blaze, with plumes of smoke blowing across the road.

Dramatic motorway camera pictures show the HGV engulfed in flames, with fire crews, police and paramedics remaining at the scene tonight.

The incident is ongoing currently on the eastbound carriageway between J14 for Hapsford and J12 for Runcorn. Congestion is building, causing major delays.

This is a live incident. Updates to follow.

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Two lanes are now reopened on the westbound carriagway

Two lanes on the westbound carriageway will be reopening shortly with 'speed restrictions' .

The eastbound carriageway remains closed this evening with crews expected to be at the scene until the early hours of tomorrow morning.

The Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service have confirmed the driver of the lorry has been 'accounted for' and is uninjured.

A spokesperson said: " The driver has been accounted for and is safe and well. The motorway is likely to remain closed for some time to come. "

"Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are using hose reel water jets to fully extinguish the fire. The smoke plume is now much-reduced. It is believed the vehicle was carrying a quantity of top soil and cardboard waste," a spokesperson for the Cheshire Fire and Rescue said.

National Highways have said that traffic which is caught within the closure is currently in the process of being turned around from the rear of the queue by units in attendance.

The latest update from the Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service reads: "Crews are making good progress in tackling the fire. Both carriageways remain closed and motorists are advised to avoid the area. It is