Spectacular images captured the aftermath of a car blaze that shut down a key route on Thursday.

The A27 Chichester Bypass remained blocked for approximately one hour after flames engulfed a vehicle.

Firefighters arrived shortly before noon on March 27 at what officials called a minor car fire.

Both carriageways of the A27 were shut between the A285 and A259 junctions near Chichester due to the burning car.

A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service reported that crews were dispatched at 11.50am to a minor vehicle fire on the A27 Chichester Bypass.

Combined fire control dispatched two appliances to the location. On arrival, firefighters discovered a car completely engulfed in flames.

Crew members equipped with respiratory protection tackled the blaze using a high pressure hose reel.

Firefighters departed the scene at 12.48pm. The route stayed sealed and motorists were urged to steer clear of the area.

Sussex Police had earlier indicated they were helping the fire brigade and council highways department implement temporary road closures.

National Highways subsequently announced the flames had been doused and the route was accessible again.

A National Highways representative stated at approximately 1pm that West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service had brought the car fire under control.

The A27 was then operating in both directions between the A285 and A259 Chichester.

One lane stayed blocked heading eastbound for vehicle recovery operations and clearing work.

Traffic on the A27 Chichester Bypass stayed severely backed up throughout the afternoon, with a single lane still inaccessible.

A striking image taken at the location showed a severely wrecked car being taken away from the road.