SEVERE delays have been reported on the East Lancs this afternoon after a vehicle burst into flames.

At around 12.40pm on Thursday, March 28, a work van caught fire on the East Lancashire Road between Leigh and Lowton.

It is believed that a generator caught fire in the back of a van with the emergency services called to the scene.

The East Lancs were closed in both directions as the fire service extinguished the fire, with witnesses reporting "traffic chaos".

It is the second serious incident in a matter of days on the East Lancs, after a pedestrian was killed in an early morning collision on Monday, March 25.

A 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving in this incident and has since been released on police bail.

Following today's vehicle fire, a spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At around 12.40pm today (March 28) one fire engine from Leigh fire station was called to reports of a van on fire on East Lancashire Road, Lowton.

“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used two hose reels to extinguish the fire and make the area safe.

"Crews were in attendance for around one and a half hours.”

Greater Manchester police have been approached for further information, although no injuries have been reported at this stage.