A double decker bus caught fire in Oxford resulting in three fire engines being called to the scene.

The incident occurred at around 8.55pm on Tuesday as Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service were called to Marston Road.

Three fire engines were sent from Rewley Road Fire Station with another coming from Slade Park Fire Station while a water carrier vehicle from Wheatley Fire Station also arrived.

An eyewitness driving by the incident told the Oxford Mail: “At around 8.45pm this evening I was driving along the A40 between Headington Roundabout and the Marston junction.

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Fire engines raced to the scene (stock photo).Fire engines raced to the scene (stock photo).

“I witnessed what looks like a red double decker bus on fire in one of the laybys near the Barton Park traffic lights with smoke coming across the carriageway."

There were no injuries in the blaze and the cause of the fire was confirmed by Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service.

A spokesperson for the service said: “This was a mechanical defect, and no action was required from the fire service.

“Crews departed at 9.20pm.”

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The bus company is not yet known but both Stagecoach and Oxford Bus Company have confirmed that the vehicle was not one from their respective fleets.

Thames Valley Police has been contacted by the Oxford Mail for further information regarding the incident.

It comes as Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has warned people to be safe if they are having a barbecue while watching the England vs Netherlands Euro 2024 semi-final this evening. 

A statement from the fire service said: "If you're brave enough to host a party for the football with a BBQ (we know, the summer has failed us again) make sure you take precautions and have a safe evening."

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