AROUND 50 people have been evacuated from a coach that was on fire on the M3.

ROMANSE, which provides traffic updates for Hampshire, first reported that one lane was blocked between J4A/A327 near Fleet and J5/A287 near hook Hook due to an incident on Friday, September 2.

Four fire crews were called to the scene.

A spokesperson from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said: "Hampshire and Surrey crews were called to a coach fire on the M3 southbound this afternoon. 

"Crews from Hartley Wintney, Rushmoor, Fleet and Surrey FRS were alerted at 12:35 to the vehicle on the hard shoulder between junction 5 and Fleet Services. 

"The small fire within the engine compartment was out upon arrival. 

"Around 50 people on board were safely evacuated as firefighters made the scene safe. 

"Crews left the scene following the stop message at 13:17. "

There were delays on the approach.

They have since confirmed the lane is now open.

They tweeted: "M3 Southbound - All lanes now CLEARED between J4A/A327 #Fleet and J5/A287 #Hook due to an earlier incident, approx 15-minute delays but easing."

Hampshire Police confirmed to the Gazette they are aware of the incident but said teams have not attended the scene.

This is a breaking news story. More as we have it.