An ice cream van driver was lucky to escape injury after his vehicle burst into flames on an A-road.

Witnesses say they heard up to three explosions after the van caught alight in Challock near Ashford.

Motorists faced delays on the A251 as the emergency services rushed to the scene.

Serena Shirley‎, who witnessed the blaze, says the driver was fortunate to escape unharmed.

"I think there were at least three explosions," she said.

"One older gentleman - who owned the ice cream van - was really upset and one of the neighbours was looking after him.

"It was dramatic as the explosions were quite scary.

"I can't believe people were overtaking the van - it could have been a very different story."

The incident happened outside the Victoriana Nursery at about 3.45pm, but the road is now clear in both directions and the burnt-out van has been recovered.

From Monday, the A251 will be closed at Badlesmere for up to 25 days for essential gas works.

As a result of the lengthy closure, highways bosses will implement 32-mile and 23-mile diversion routes for drivers heading north and south-bound - forcing them to loop around via the A252 and A2.

The work - carried out by SGN - will run through until August 20.

The route will be shut off 24 hours a day near to the Red Lion pub - with only local access being permitted.

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