This was the dramatic moment a bus burst into flames on the A23.

The Sussex Bus bus was en route to Brighton from Hurstpierpoint when an engine fault led to catching fire three minutes before the end of the fire strike at 3.57pm.

It took place on the southbound carriageway of the trunk road - this lane is currently closed and the other lane is smoke-logged. A Sussex Police spokeswoman said: "Police were called to the A23 at 4.05pm to reports a 56-seat coach was on fire.

"There was one passenger and the driver on the coach and they managed to get out safely.

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"Four pumps have attended."

A West Sussex Fire and Rescue spokeswoman confirmed crews from Henfield, Hurstpierpoint and Haywards Heath were among those who attended.

A Sussex Bus spokesman said: "We have got a transport manager en route to the scene but he is trapped on the A23 traffic caused by the fire.

"A little girl was on the bus as well.

"The bus had already picked people up from school. It was going to Brighton to get people from work and take them home to Mid Sussex.

"We are sorting out diversions and putting on alternative services now."

Terri Hunter, of Brighton, who witnessed the crash, said: "We were passing as they blocked the road.

"It was crazy. It was really on fire - the whole inside of the bus.

"People were stood on the bank by the side of the bus.

"There was so much smoke."

The 45-year-old was travelling southbound when she saw the fire.

She added: "It looked like everyone was alright. The police had just got there and were just about to close the road.

"It was really dramatic."

Did you witness the fire? Email anna.roberts@theargus.co.uk