A23: Car fire causes standstill traffic on main road

The fire happened this afternoon at around 3.45pm on the southbound side near Hurstpierpoint which is near Hassocks.

Traffic is being held on the southbound side of the A23 while firefighters deal with the incident.

Queues are stretching back to Hickstead.

Long queues on the A23 (Image: Peter Ireland)

Plumes of black smoke were billowing up as firefighters put the car fire out. 

Motorists were out of their cars watching on while traffic was held.

One lane of the road has now been reopened.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service are dealing with the incident.

A fire service spokesman said: "We received the call at 3.47pm this afternoon.

Remains of the car (Image: Sussex Police)

"It was a report of a car on fire between Muddleswood and Hickstead on the A23 southbound. 

"We mobilised fire engines from Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath and one from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.

"Upon arrival they found one vehicle well alight. They used two high pressured hose reels to put out the fire.

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"They are still on the scene damping down any hotspots.

"We urge people to avoid the area for the time being."

There are no reports of any injuries.

Sussex Police are also at the scene.