There were reports of "heavy traffic" on the A27 due to a car fire.

The AA warned drivers to expect delays at Falmer as a result of the incident earlier this evening.

At about 7pm, a spokesman for the service said: "There are reports of heavy traffic due to a car fire on the A27 Falmer Hill eastbound between Coldean Lane (at the Hollingbury/Ditchling junction) and the B2123 The Drove (at the Falmer/Rottingdean Junction).

There is heavy traffic due to a car fire on the A27 at Falmer Credit: @LukeB_MTB

There is 'heavy traffic' due to a car fire on the A27 at Falmer Credit: @LukeB_MTB

"Sensors suggest this is affecting traffic heading towards Lewes."

Pictures from the scene showed a car engulfed by flames, with a thick cloud of grey smoke billowing into the air.

Fire crews were called and worked quickly to extinguish the fire.

An East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: "We were called at 6.38pm to attend a car fire on the A27 towards the Falmer turn off.

"Firefighters from Preston Circus and Roedean attended.

The Argus: There is 'heavy traffic' due to a car fire on the A27 at Falmer Credit: @LukeB_MTBThere is 'heavy traffic' due to a car fire on the A27 at Falmer Credit: @LukeB_MTB

"Two breathing apparatus, one hose reel jet and one foam jet were used to extinguish the fire.

"It was an accidental ignition.

"One lane of the A27 was shut for a short time but has now been reopened. Fire crews have now leftr the scene.

"There were no injuries."