FIREFIGHTERS from Wellington, Wiveliscombe, Taunton, Cullumpton and Bridgwater fought a blaze on a lorry on the southbound M5 yesterday.

The southbound carriageway was closed between junctions 26 for Wellington, and 27 for Tiverton for ten hours causing heavy tailbacks on roads in the Wellington area before being reopened at around 11pm last night.

Diversions were set up on the southbound A38, and the southbound motorway entry slip road has been closed at junction 26.

The Highways Agency advised drivers to avoid the area or find an alternative route used if possible.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue said the fire was caused by overheated brakes caused by a blown tyre.

A police spokesman said the alarm was raised at 12.23pm, and by 12.45pm the lorry, which was carrying cardboard, was well alight.

The fire was finally extinguished at about 8.25pm.