Image shows aftermath of huge lorry fire as part of M42 remains closed today

This is the aftermath of a huge fire which ripped through a lorry and led to the continued closure of part of the M42. Huge plumes of acrid black smoke filled the air around the M42 southbound yesterday following the fire.

National Highways West Midlands has confirmed the stretch of motorway between J10 at and J9 at Curdworth remained closed this morning, June 27. This is so a 'complex clean-up and recovery' can take place.

It added: "Road will be closed throughout this morning's peak period." Traffic sat for hours in the sweltering hear yesterday afternoon (June 26) as a result of the lorry fire.

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Highways said it was 'laden with cardboard' and this caused huge problems for the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service crews attempting to fight the flames.

Crews were called out at lunchtime from Atherstone Fire Station, two from Nuneaton Fire Stationan engine from Coleshill Fire Station and two water bowsers from Kenilworth Fire Station and Coleshill . A post on Nuneaton Fire Station explained that there were issues getting the huge amount of water they need to put out the fire.

"The use of eight breathing apparatus and hose reel jets has made this incident arduous and protracted," the team said. As well as thanking those stuck in the traffic build-up, they also issued a warning, saying: "We would like to thank the public who waited patiently in the blistering heat.

"One safety point we would like to make is that during the approach to the incident people were walking around in the carriageway. We would prefer if you would stay safely in your vehicles, it's very dangerous for us as emergency service drivers traversing roads with traffic at a stand still, the last thing we want is a tragedy to happen. You are much safer in your vehicles than wandering along the hard shoulder."

It is understood fire crews will be providing 'continual relief' at the scene today.

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