M62 fire LIVE updates as drivers face seven-mile queues approaching Manchester

Long queues are snaking across the Pennines following a van fire on the M62. A lane has been closed on the westbound carriageway between junctions 22 and 21, between Saddleworth and Milnrow.

Firefighters are working at the scene to tackle the blaze. National Highways says drivers are facing seven-mile queues tailing back towards Huddersfield.

A West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "We were called at 6.20am to reports of a van on fire on the M62 Westbound junction 22. We sent two crews, from Huddersfield and Rastrick.

"Firefighters used breathing apparatus and hose reels to extinguish the blaze and handed the scene to the highways agency. No reports of injuries."

The queues were taking 45 minutes to clear before rush hour. The westbound access slip road onto the M62 at junction 22, near Saddleworth, was also closed.

A National Highways spokesperson wrote on X: "On #M62 westbound between J22 and J21 nr #Rochdale, 1 lane (of 3) is closed due to a van fire. The M62 J22 westbound access slip road is also closed.

"Delays of 45 minutes on the approach, 7 miles of slow moving traffic - almost back to #Huddersfield. @WYFRS are at scene." Drivers are also advised to take care on the same stretch of M62 - with wind, rain and sleet in the forecast on the Pennines.

This is a live event. Follow the latest updates below.

Two fire crews attended the incident this morning to tackle the van fire.

A West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said:

"We were called at 6.20am to reports of a van on fire on the M62 Westbound junction 22.

"We sent two crews, from Huddersfield and Rastrick.

"Firefighters used breathing apparatus and hose reels to extinguish the blaze and handed the scene to the highways agency.