Vehicle fire closes busy A37 road in both directions

The A37 has been blocked in both directions following reports of a vehicle fire^[1]. The incident is thought to have happened sometime before 4.45pm and is still ongoing.

The fire is also thought to have started between Whitchurch and Pensford. As a result of the road blockage the 172 and 376 buses have been diverted away from the incident via Keynsham and Marksbury to Chelswood Roundabout.

Traffic monitoring service Inrix reports: "A37 Hursley Hill in both directions blocked, very slow traffic due to vehicle fire between Hursley Lane (Whitchurch) and Stanton Drew turn off (Pensford).

"The closure has moved towards Pensford, affecting traffic between Whitchurch and Pensford. Diversion - bus 172 and 376 are diverting away via Keynsham and Marksbury to Chelswood Roundabout."

This is a live blog. For the latest updates scroll down. Main picture and video credit: Tom Hawksley.

References

1. ^{^} both directions following reports of a vehicle fire (www.somersetlive.co.uk)
2. ^{^} Girl, 13, in hospital after being hit by car (www.somersetlive.co.uk)