AN earlier van fire is causing major tailbacks on the A31 westbound.

Emergency services were called to the scene at Castle Malwood Hill in the New Forest at 11.20am.

One lane is closed and traffic is queueing as a result of the earlier van fire between M27 J1 and Rufus Stone Services.

Lane one remains closed and there are understood to be delays of 30minutes.

The road needs resurfacing following the fire and a full closure may be needed to complete the work due to the extent of the damage.

Police were alerted after smoke was seen pouring out of an Iveco van.