Drivers are facing delays tonight after a lorry transporting 12 tonnes of hay caught fire.

Police and fire crews were called to the Ash Bypass A257 at 5.44pm to reports the lorry was ablaze.

Three fire engines remained at the scene in Ash, which is near Sandwich, until 2am as they attempted to extinguish the flames.

Police closed the road in both directions as a precaution.

No injuries have been reported.

Stagecoach have reported some delays to bus services in the area due to the fire.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: "We have three fire engines at the scene dealing with a lorry with a load of hay on board, which has caught fire. The initial call was at 5.44pm and the incident is ongoing, with firefighters in breathing apparatus tackling the fire with a high-pressure hose.

"The road has been closed as a safety precaution and Kent Police is also in attendance.

"There are no reports of any injuries and the cause of the fire has not yet been established."

Police are now appealing for information into the blaze.

A spokesman said: "Kent Police was called to assist Kent Fire and Rescue Service at the scene of a lorry fire on the A257 near Ash shortly before 6pm.

"Officers attended and assisted with traffic management while the fire was extinguished by KFRS.

"An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing and anyone with any information is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/213158/20."

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