Updated: M61 re-opened after fire but police continue search for driver

The M61 near Bolton is shut this evening after a vehicle fire during the rush hour.

The fire broke out just after 6pm and led to the northbound carriageway between Kearsley Spur, junction 3, and Watergate Lane, Farnworth at junction 4, to be closed for just over an hour.

Traffic was released before police ordered all lanes to be shut again just 30 minutes later.

This was for a police investigation to take place once the vehicle fire was out.

Diversions are now in place.

There is no indication when the motorway will reopen.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service told The Bolton News: "“At around 6.20pm on Thursday 5 January, GMFRS crews were called to reports of a vehicle on fire on the M61 northbound between junctions 2 and 3 near Worsley.

“Three fire engines from Bolton Central and Farnworth fire stations quickly attended the incident. Firefighters used two hose reels to extinguish the fire.

“GMFRS crews were in attendance for around half an hour.”

The latest information from the highways monitoring site states: "M61 Northbound closed, queueing traffic due to accident investigation work from J3 (Kearsley Spur) to J4 A6 Watergate Lane (Farnworth). The vehicle fire has been extinguished. The road remains closed for investigation works."

Diversions have been put in place as there is no indication when the motorway will reopen.

Road users are advised to follow the solid square diversion symbol on road signs Exit at J2 Follow the A666 (Kearsley spur) northbound

At the A6053 roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A6053 northbound

At the A5082 junction turn left onto the A5082 westbound

At the A6 junction turn right onto the A6 westbound At the next roundabout take the 3rd exit onto Watergate Lane

At the next roundabout take the 1st exit to re-join the M61 at J4 Delays are likely on approach to the closure and diversion routes.

A spokesman for National Highway said: "If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time. Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey.

"Further information is available from National Highways by visiting our  www.trafficengland.com  website and travel apps, or via our regional twitter feed. Our 24/7 contact centre team is also available to provide up to the minute information on 0300 123 5000."