Lorry carrying batteries catches fire and reignites on M11 near Cambridge, forcing day-long closure

A lorry carrying car parts and batteries went up in flames on the M11 near Cambridge - and then continued to reignite.

Firefighters were at the scene most of the day on Sunday (January 22) to deal with the blaze on the northbound carriageway between Coton and Girton, which led to its closure until Monday morning.

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service said no-one was injured in the accidental fire.

The service was called at 8am and mobilised two crews from Cambridge, a crew from Chatteris, Huntingdon and St Ives, and the water carrier from Ramsey. A Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue crew from Royston also responded.

As firefighters worked to extinguish the fire, they set up a shuttle system to get more water to the incident.

Manchettes Vehicle Recovery also assisted by helping to break down the contents of the trailer and separate the load.

Firefighters remained on scene until around 9.30pm, but the extensive damage caused to the road surface meant it had to be completely resurfaced overnight, with a diversion put in place.

Then at 9.48am on Monday, police and paramedics were called to the southbound carriageway near Madingley after a collision between a motorbike and a van, which led to delays.

The force said the motorcyclist suffered minor injuries.