FIREFIGHTERS rushed to the scene of a bus fire on the A13 slip road heading towards Basildon this evening.

The drama happened about 7.15pm when the bus was leaving the A13 at the Five Bells junction and passengers heard a couple of loud bangs and were then stunned to see flames.

They all evacuated the vehicle and the emergency services arrived soon after.

At 9pm Essex Police issued the following statement: "We are currently on scene of a vehicle fire with fire brigade colleagues at the Five Bells interchange of the A13 at Basildon.

"The fire is out and the A13 is open in both directions, but the off-slip road from the A13 (Southend bound) is closed.

"It will be closed until further notice and we would ask drivers to find alternative routes while we complete our enquiries."

It is believed the fire has caused substantial damage to the road surface.