Lorry blaze melts M-way

Photo: Nigel Hill

BLAZE: Nigel Hill's picture shows the intensity of the lorry fire

THE M60 was getting back to normal today following a lorry blaze so intense it melted the road surface.

The dense smoke and fierce flames forced the closure of both carriageways near Chadderton, causing massive traffic jams and set fire to the motorway banking.

At one stage 50 firemen were dealing with the blaze, which broke out at 2.30pm yesterday between junction 20 at Chadderton and 18 near Middleton. The lorry, loaded with PVC-type rolls, is believed to have rolled over. There were no reports of injuries. Chronicle reader Nigel Hill captured the drama.