Delays on M61 after lorry catches fire

The family of a lorry driver say he escaped a blaze "just in time" after the vehicle caught fire on the M61 this morning.

Granada Reports view Samantha Gillibrand told us on our Facebook page: "Just to let everyone know the driver is fine, escaped just in time. It was my mum's partner."

There are delays on the M61 after a lorry carrying 20 tonnes of pet food caught fire.

The southbound carriageway has been completely closed southbound between junction six at Bolton and junction eight at Chorley.

Two lanes of the northbound carriageway are also closed and drivers are being warned to expect long delays.

The driver of the lorry escaped unhurt, North West Motorway Police confirmed.

M61 Southbound blocked due to lorry fire after Bolton West Services (Rivington Services).