A vehicle fire has closed the M2 motorway near Ballymena. The closure covers the section from the Raceview Road junction toward the Larne roundabout.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service responded to the incident on the major route that links Belfast to northern areas including the Antrim coast.

Police and traffic authorities issued advice for drivers to avoid the area. Alternative routes are recommended until the road reopens.

The M2 serves as a key artery for commuters and freight between Belfast and the north Antrim region.