A driver died early today when his car crashed into a wall and burst into flames.

Rescuers were driven back by intense heat and flames and could do nothing to save the motorist.

The crash happened in Falmer Road, Brighton, at the junction of Ovingdean Road at about 2.30am.

Witnesses said "night turned to day" as the car burst into flames.

The Peugeot 205, travelling north, left the road and careered into a flint wall.

The collision demolished a 15ft section of wall, hurling debris 50ft into the garden of a luxury house owned by Darren Gage, 34.

Mr Gage, who was asleep in bed 100ft from the scene, said: "I looked out of my window and there was this big ball of fire. It was so bright it was like the sun was shining."

Mr Gage, who runs a tropical fish business, went to the scene but there nothing anyone could do.

He said: "Police were already there - the heat from the fire was incredible."

Firefighters from Roedean extinguished the flames but the Peugeot was destroyed.

The road was closed while the body was removed and wreckage was cleared.

Police said they hoped to identify the man and to inform relatives later today.

Meanwhile, accident investigators were trying to determine the cause of the accident.

Tyre marks stretched more than 40ft along Falmer Road and there were deep gouges in the paving in front of the demolished wall.

The crash and ensuing fire destroyed fencing and hedges around the garden.

Police have appealed for witnesses to contact PC Laurie Wickens at the Shoreham traffic police station on 0845 6070999.