DELAYS are building on the M3 near Winchester because of a car fire on the hard shoulder.

All three lanes of the southbound carriageway were blocked at Twyford Down close to junction 11 and the B3335, and the River Itchen.

The police were holding traffic back as the fire engulfed the vehicle. Fire crews are at the scene.

Two lanes have been re-opened to clear the growing backlog.

The ROMANSE traffic information service is warning of 30 minute delays. Traffic is trying to avoid the scene by leaving the M3 at junction 9 and junction 11 are going into Winchester.

Traffic heading north on the M3 is also building as drivers slow down to take a look.

 

The incident started wth a two-car collision at around 4.25pm. There are not thought to be any injuries.

It has impacted on bus services too

 

More to follow