M1 reopens southbound in Leicestershire after lorry fire and crash

The crash on the M1 in Leicestershire appears to have happened around 30 minutes after the fire

The M1 in Leicestershire has reopened southbound after two incidents on the motorway.

Traffic was stopped at about 13:00 BST on the northbound side between junction 21A at Kirby Muxloe and junction 22 at Coalville due to a lorry fire, then was closed southbound shortly after.

About 30 minutes later there was a collision between a car and a motorbike in the same area.

Emergency services, including the air ambulance, were at the scene.

Traffic service Inrix, which reported details of the crash, said the southbound carriageway was reopened shortly before 15:00.

The crash has blocked one of the diversion routes off the motorway, adding to delays

Inrix also said the accident was stopping people for going down the diversion route towards the A46.

One person posted on X: "Hoping the slip road reopens very very soon! Have a tiny baby in the car with me and can't move."

But National Highways responded: "Unfortunately not. An air ambulance is now attending due to the severity of the incident."

The fire service said flames and smoke could be seen from Ratby and Groby. Residents were advised to close doors and windows.

Currently there are no more details of injuries.

Emergency services are at the scene

Motorists were asked to use a diversion by coming off at junction 21 and following the A5460 to the A563 until it gets to the A50.

Following this road through the Lena Drive junction, Bradgate Hill and Fieldhead Roundabouts to rejoin the M1 at junction 22.