Firefighters continue to tackle the blaze, which happened at around 6.15am on the southbound carriageway between junction 17 for the M45 and junction 16 for west Northampton and Weedon Bec. Three of four lanes were still shut until gone 2pm, with traffic queueing back six miles to junction 18 for Crick and Rugby, Warwickshire.

       Motorists faced delays of up to one hour, however only one lane now remains closed with traffic starting to move more freely.

       Several crews from both Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service and Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service are in attendance.

       They have tackled the blaze using breathing apparatus, hoses and jets.

       In photos taken earlier today, smoke could be seen billowing out of the wreckage with there potentially damage to the road surface.

       A Highways England spokesperson had earlier said: "Recovery operators are on scene and are in the process of dismantling the vehicle to allow fire crews to concentrate their efforts in extinguishing the blaze at the source.

       "Lanes 1, 2 and 3 (of 4) are currently closed and are likely to remain closed throughout the morning.

       "If this incident impacts your planned route, please allow extra journey time. Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey."