A busy A-road was blocked because of a blazing car.

Shocked motorists could see flames and smoke rising from the vehicle's bonnet on the Maidstone-bound carriageway of the A249 between Pilgrims Way and J7 of the M20.

Cars and vans were queueing up Detling Hill from Jade's Crossing as firefighters fought the blaze.

Emergency services were called to the incident at 4.15pm today.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: "We were called to reports of a car alight on the A249 near Stockbury, Maidstone.

"Two fire engines attended and crews wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the flames using hose reel jets and compressed air foam."

No injuries were reported. It is believed the cause was accidental.

Motorists were advised to try to use an alternative route if possible.

Both lanes were blocked initially, but one reopened at around 5pm.