Firefighters put out rubbish fire reported by motorists using the A1(M) on Stevenage stretch

Motorists on the A1(M) repeatedly called the fire service to report smoke billowing across the motorway this afternoon between Junction 8 and 7 for Stevenage.

Fire engines from Hitchin and Stevenage went to the source of the smoke which turned out to be a large rubbish fire on land at Dyes Lane in Stevenage.

Hoses were used to put out the blaze which was reported around 1pm.

Crews were also called to a property in Fellowes Way in Stevenage at 12.30pm to deal with a small kitchen fire which was out by the time they arrived.