Shocking photos have revealed the extent of the damage caused by a fire in Ledbury.

A main road into the town remains closed after a van caught fire in the early hours of Monday morning.

West Mercia Police has today, Wednesday, confirmed that the fire started due to a mechanical fault on the vehicle.

Herefordshire County Council's highways team has closed the A449 Worcester Road while work gets underway to re-surface the carriageway which was damaged by the blaze.

According to the council website, the road will remain closed until 11.59pm tonight, January 11.

Ledbury Reporter: Two HWFRS crews were called to the scene to stop the flames spreadingTwo HWFRS crews were called to the scene to stop the flames spreading (Image: Craig Fletcher)

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene shortly before 5.30am on Monday.

Two crews, one each from Ledbury and Malvern fire stations, worked to stop the flames from spreading to nearby hedges and trees.

"Crews discovered a box van well alight and the fire had spread to hedgerow and trees," said a HWFRS spokesperson.

"The fire was extinguished using two hosereels with one firefighter wearing breathing apparatus.

"Highways were requested to attend due to damage to the carriageway.

"There were no casualties."

Photos shared by Ledbury Fire Station on Facebook have revealed the extent of the damage.

The flames appear to have stripped the van to its core, with the engine now in full view.

Ledbury Reporter: The damage caused to the vanThe damage caused to the van (Image: Craig Fletcher)

Highways have been contacted for further information about when the road will reopen.