A35: Bus fire forces road closure at Shute, Axminster

The A35 was closed from the Umborne turn off to Loughwood Lane, at Shute, near Axminster, which caused 'considerable traffic disruption' in the area.

The bus was 'completely destroyed' and Devon and Cornwall Police had advised road users to avoid the area whilst the road was closed.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall police said: "Police were called by the fire service around 9.05am today, 13 February, following reports of a bus on fire on the A35 at Shute, Axminster.

"The bus has been completely destroyed by fire.

"No injuries have been reported at this time and the A35 is blocked and has been closed in both directions.

"The incident is causing considerable traffic disruption and we would ask motorists to avoid the area for the time being."

Fire engines responding to bus fire on A35 near Shute (Image: Colyton Fire Station)

Several fire crews from Colyton, Honiton and Dorset rushed to the blaze before getting the flames under control by a team wearing breathing apparatus and a large amount of water.

A spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service added: "We were called at 8.35am this morning to a single decker bus that was well alight on the A35 near Taunton Cross, Devon.

"Appliances from Colyton and Honiton stations attended and used breathing apparatus, a hose reel jet and thermal imaging cameras to extinguish the fire.

"The vehicle has been completely destroyed by fire."

Colyton Fire Station also offered some advice on what to do if anyone finds themselves in a vehicle on fire. 

They added: "If you are ever in a vehicle and you can smell smoke, stop the vehicle, get out and call 999.

"If you are on public transport and you are told to get leave the vehicle, please treat it as you would if a fire alarm was going off in your home. Leave the vehicle immediately, not staying to look for your belongings."