THERE are long delays on the M62 this morning (Wednesday) due to a large crane fire and a fuel spillage near Rainhill Stoops.

The M62 Westbound is closed, with traffic halted due to the crane fire and fuel spillage between Junction seven A57 Warrington Road (Rainhill Stoops) and Junction six M57 (Tarbock Island).

There is congestion to Junction eight (Warrington West / Burtonwood).

Traffic is also slowing on the opposite side.

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Traffic feeds say the fire started at 7.25am has since been put out, however the motorway is unable to open due to a large fuel spillage across most of the lanes.

The crane's fuel tank, of 200 lites, had to be drained before recovery of the vehicle could begin.

Trapped traffic within the closure has been stationary since 7.25am. The trapped traffic was released at 9.20am.

Motorists have been asked to use the diversion via Widnes using Watkinson Way, Speke Road and the Knowsley Expressway. Traffic should follow the Solid Diamond diversion symbol.