Traffic was brought to a halt when a double-decker bus caught fire on the A338 northbound at 1:20pm this afternoon.
Pls avoid A338/A31 if you can – we're dealing with a bus fire near Ashley Heath #busyday #staysafe
— Former Dorset FRS (@DorsetFire) February 19, 2014
https://twitter.com/RickGibala/status/436135076192321536
Bournemouth Echo reporter Steve Smith has said the cause of the fire is an expected electrical fault but an investigation is to follow. Watch Manager Allen Westerby has said five passengers and the driver escaped unscathed.
Watch mgr Allen Westerby said five passengers were on the bus and escaped safely. Driver ensured they got to safety @Bournemouthecho
— Steve Smith (@SteveRedruth) February 19, 2014
The A338 has been reopened but remains blocked and severe delays are expected as a result. Motorists are being advised to use alternative routes if possible.
UPDATE | A338 at Ashley Heath remains blocked northbound due to burnt out vehicle in carriageway. Severe delays in excess of 45 minutes.
— Travel Dorset (@TravelDorset) February 19, 2014
