An engine fault caused a coach to catch fire M1 northbound yesterday, causing severe delays.

Three lanes were closed between junctions 7 and 8 on the northbound carriageway while emergency services dealt with the fire at around 2.30pm.

There were no passengers in the coach and the driver managed to get out safely.

Antony Adair from Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue said: "It took seven pumps of water to put the fire out."

One lane remained closed in the evening as the highways agency began recovery work on the road.