A van caught fire after crashing with a lorry in Hove yesterday afternoon (Wednesday 28 Hebruary).
The crash happened at the bottom of King George VI Avenue, known locally as Snakey Hill, by the corner of Goldstone Crescent.
The A2038 was closed while the fire service dealt with the blaze, with billowing smoke visible for some distance even though the crash happened in the Goldstone Valley.
And the road closure led to queues on surrounding roads including the A27 Brighton bypass lasting until the evening rush-hour.
The fire service said yesterday: “East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service was called at 3.06pm today (Wednesday 28 February) to reports of a road traffic collision and a vehicle fire in Goldstone Crescent in Hove.
“A van and an HGV had collided and the van was well alight.
“Crews used a hose-reel jet, breathing apparatus and a thermal imaging camera to deal with incident.
“They have also used an environmental pack after a diesel spill.
“Police and ambulance were also alerted.
“The area remains congested and people are advised to avoid it and find alternative routes.”
