A bendy bus has caught fire on the A1(M) this afternoon (Friday), forcing the motorway to shut.

The Comet: The burnt out bendy bus on the A1(M), just before junction 6The burnt out bendy bus on the A1(M), just before junction 6 (Image: Archant)

Emergency services were called at about 12.25pm to reports that a Stansted Airport bendy bus was on fire on the northbound carriageway just before junction 6 for Welwyn.

Firefighters from Welwyn GC used two hose reels to put out the blaze, which was declared out just before 1pm.

All three lanes of the northbound carriageway remain closed with traffic at a standstill, while the southbound carriageway – which was initially shut due to smoke drifting across – has since reopened.

A police spokesman said it is believed only the bus driver was onboard and he has been taken to safety.

• UPDATE, 1.21pm: The two outside lanes of the northbound carriageway have reopened. Inside lane is still closed due to spilt diesel.