A BLAZE in a double-decker bus caused traffic chaos on one of Dorset's busiest roads this afternoon.

The bus, operated by Morebus, formerly known as Wilts and Dorset, burst into flames on the A338 northbound out of Bournemouth at 1.20pm, and five passengers were led to safety by the driver.

Although one lane of the carriageway opened around an hour later, many motorists travelling towards Ringwood have been facing huge queues trailing back past Cooper Dean.

Despite the severity of the blaze, which gutted the bus, no injuries were reported.