A motorist who drove the wrong way down the M25 has been reported to court, and a number of others who did the same have been warned by police.

Police officers witnessed several vehicles turn around and drive against parked traffic on the clockwise-carriageway near Westerham on Saturday.

The manoeuvres came during a delay on the motorway caused by a fire in the cab of a jet tanker, which was carrying 40,000 litres of fuel.

Both sides of the carriageway had to be closed because of the risk posed to passing vehicles.

“Driving against the traffic not only puts your life at risk, but others too, and also severely hinders the speed at which the emergency services can respond" - Sgt Phil Dix

Sgt Phil Dix from the Surrey Police's Road Policing Unit said: “Closing one of the busiest roads in the country is not a decision we make lightly and we ask that motorists please remain patient and understand that we are doing it for their safety.

“Driving against the traffic not only puts your life at risk, but others too, and also severely hinders the speed at which the emergency services can respond.

“We can be delayed because members of the public gather on the hard shoulder; leave their cars unattended, or sometimes take their dog for a walk on the grass verge.”

Police officers are advising members of the public to stay patient and urging them not to risk other motorists' safety.

One motorist who drove against the traffic in lane 4 before turning into Clack Lane Service Station has been reported to court for dangerous driving.