Image:James Greenwood

Camper van fire closes stretch of M42

A section of the M42 in Worcestershire was closed northbound on Saturday morning after a camper van caught fire.

Emergency services responded to the incident following a call at approximately 09:15 GMT. The vehicle’s driver pulled over near junction 2 for Alvechurch, close to Hopwood Park Services, after flames engulfed the camper van, according to Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.

Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire, but traffic delays built up as vehicles were held back, with queues stretching towards junction 1 for Bromsgrove.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported. To prevent further hazards, gritting teams were deployed to ensure the water used by firefighters did not freeze.

National Highways implemented a diversion, routing traffic up and over the junction, and advised drivers to expect delays. By 11:00 GMT, congestion extended approximately three miles (4.8 km).

The northbound carriageway was reopened shortly after midday.