Driver's lucky escape as coach engulfed in flames

The carriageway was shut whilst firefighters tackled the blaze

These pictures show the dramatic moment a coach was engulfed in flames on a major road.

It was completely burnt to its framework in a layby on the A5 eastbound in Shropshire closing the carriageway for almost an hour and causing miles of standstill traffic.

In a lucky escape, the driver was out of the coach before it set alight.

The coach company, Ausden Clark, said the vehicle was empty and returning to its depot in Leicester.

Three fire engines attended the scene, where a coach was completely engulfed by fire

Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to reports of a vehicle fire near Junction 7 of the M54 between Preston and Cluddley, just after 14:30 BST.

Three fire engines were sent from Shrewsbury and Wellington.

The service said all passengers and staff had safely left the coach.

The carriageway was shut whilst firefighters tackled the blaze

The vehicle was completely destroyed by the flames

West Mercia Police was in attendance to assist with traffic management.

The road was closed for almost an hour, with traffic backing up along the road.

One lane has since reopened to allow traffic past.

At about 17:00 BST, crews remained at the scene to make the area safe following the serious fire.

One lane remained closed and motorists were urged to check their journeys before traveling.

One lane remained closed in the aftermath of the fire