A STRETCH of the A37 was forced to close for several hours after being blocked off both ways due to a vehicle fire.

Yesterday (October 2, 2024) two vehicles were involved in a serious collision that shook up both drivers - with one of the drivers being taken to hospital as a precaution.

The two-car collision also engulfed one driver's car in flames.

The section of the A37 that was affected was near Somerton, from West Lane (West Lydford) to the Hornblotton turn-off (East Pennard).

The incident was first reported to the police at 1:24pm, with the road not reopening until the evening, when traffic started to flow more.

Traffic was almost at a standstill for several hours with the road being fully cleared and flowing normally before 9pm.

Traffic had built up more than a mile from the accident, leaving cars at a standstill by the Cross Keys Inn.

The police reported minor casualties at the scene yesterday, despite the road being closed for several hours.

Commenting on the situation yesterday (October 3, 2024) a police representative said: "A two-vehicle collision on the A37 near West Lydford was reported to police at 1:24pm today.

"Officers attended and remain at the scene, alongside the ambulance and fire services.

"The road was closed after one of the vehicles caught on fire. It remains closed between Lydford-on-Fosse and the junction with Fair Place.

"No serious injuries have been reported, however, a woman has been taken to hospital as a precaution."