A busy commuter route near Southampton was hit with major traffic disruptions today after a car caught fire.

Emergency services were called to the Chilworth intersection of the M3 and M27 following reports that a blue Volvo Estate had burst into the flames.

The stricken car was on the northbound carriageway and the fire brigade received a call from a member of the public just after 9 am.

Eastleigh firefighters soon had the fire under control and no one was hurt.

There were traffic tailbacks while recovery trucks towed away the burnt out vehicle and the road was made safe.