Earlier this evening (December 22), part of the M1 motorway was closed. All four lanes on the southbound carriageway between Junction 13 (Milton Keynes South/Bedford) and Junction 12 (Toddington) have since reopened after emergency services tended to a vehicle that caught fire after a crash.

       Lanes had previously been closed for recovery and clear up, which have since been completed.

       However, motorists are being advised of delays following the incident.

       National Highways issued an update at 6.10pm.

       They said that the incident was causing residual congestion.

       There said there is just over four miles of congestion, which will add at least 35 minutes to normal journey times from J14 Milton Keynes.

       The tweet reads: "Recovery and clear up is complete and the lane closures have been removed.

       "Approx. 4.2 miles of residual congestion currently remains on the #M1 southbound from J14 #MiltonKeynes adding at least 35 minutes to normal journey times.

       "Thank you for your patience this evening."

       Highway camera footage shows queues of traffic.

       The delays will come as a blow to many motorists travelling home for Christmas.

       A National Highways spokesperson's initial statement about the closure said: "#Bedfordshire #Buckinghamshire please be aware the #M1 southbound is currently closed between J13 #MiltonKeynes and J12 #Toddington due to a collision and subsequent vehicle fire.

       "Delays are building in the area.

       "Please approach with caution."