A LORRY is engulfed in flames on the M5 southbound slip road at Junction 12 (Quedgeley/Hardwicke).

Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene at 4.10am.

Two crews from Gloucester, one from Stroud and a water carrier from Cheltenham are currently on the scene.

Police are also on the scene.

The lorry is a heavy vehicle and was carrying wooden pallets.

All lanes of the M5 are currently open but the slip road is closed.

The slip road is likely to remain closed for some time due to the severity of the blaze, recovery operation and possible resurfacing.

Highways England tweeted: 

People driving both ways on the M5 should be warned that smoke is blowing both ways.

Diversion: Follow the solid black circle symbol via B4008 Northbound, A38 Southbound, A419 Eastbound to join M5 Southbound at J13 (Stroud).