A crash between a car and a cement mixer has spread fire to telegraph lines and a nearby property.

The collision on London Road in Balcombe caused the road to close as emergency services responded to the scene.

On arrival at the scene, fire services found both vehicles alight with the flames spreading.

A spokesman for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “We were called at 9.31am this morning to reports of a road traffic collision on London Road at Balcombe between Stone Lane and the B2110.

“Joint Fire Control mobilised fire engines from Crawley and Burgess Hill to the scene.

“Upon arrival they found a collision involving a car and a cement mixer, with both vehicles alight and the fire spreading to nearby telegraph lines and the porch of a nearby property. Fortunately none of the occupants of the vehicles were trapped.

“Sussex Police and the South East Coast Ambulance Service are also in attendance, and BT have been requested to the scene.

“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus brought the fire under control using one high pressure hose reel, two jets, a hydrant and foam. They remain on scene at this time damping down.

“London Road is expected to remain closed in both directions for some time. Drivers are urged to avoid the area.”

None of the occupants of the building were found to be trapped in the fire and there have been no reports of injuries at this time.

Earlier reports suggested that a lorry had overturned and caught fire as a result of the crash.

The road is expected to be closed for some time.