An Argos delivery lorry burst into flames on the A249 in Sittingbourne.

Drivers faced delays as emergency crews tackled the blaze just after the Bobbing turn-off.

The Maidstone-bound carriageway between Bobbing and junction five of the M2 was shut at around 7.30am.

It remained partially closed until around noon.

Two fire engines were sent just before 7.30am and arrived to find the 7.5 tonne delivery lorry well alight.

The road was closed due to large plumes of smoke drifting across the carriageway.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a hose reel with foam to bring the flames under control.

They spent a further 20 minutes making the vehicle safe and damping down the area.

A police spokesman said: "At 7.28am Kent Police was informed of a vehicle fire on the A249, near Bobbing, by Kent Fire and Rescue Service.

"Officers are currently assisting with traffic management."

An Argos spokesman said: “We can confirm that an Argos delivery truck caught fire early this morning on the A249 near Sittingbourne.

"Thankfully nobody was harmed during the incident. The fire brigade responded and the road was closed as a precaution.

"We are investigating the cause. ”