Driver escapes as inferno destroys empty double decker bus on A31 near Lyndhurst

A DOUBLE-DECKER bus driver had a lucky escape when his vehicle burst into flames on the A31 near Lyndhurst on Saturday night.

The City Red bus, which was not carrying any passengers at the time, was completely destroyed in the inferno on the eastbound carriageway opposite Stoney Cross services.

Called out at 7.15pm, firefighters from Hampshire and Dorset battled for nearly an hour to contain the flames, aided by breathing apparatus and a short extension ladder.

A Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue spokesperson said: “Fortunately, there were no passengers and the driver was able to safely evacuate the bus.”

Motorists were urged to avoid the area as the carriageway was closed by police, with heavy traffic also reported on the opposite carriageway.

One lane was reopened by 9pm as recovery of the bus was carried out and damage to the road surface was assessed.