Road shut as fire engulfs abandoned static caravan

A static caravan that was left alongside a busy trunk road for nearly two weeks has been destroyed by fire.

Crews were called to the A35 near Dorchester shortly after 01:00 GMT where the structure was well alight.

The road was closed while 10 firefighters from Dorchester and Weymouth tackled the blaze, which was out by 02:50.

National Highways said the static caravan had been left on the verge on Tuesday 20 October.

A National Highways spokesperson said: "We identified the abandoned mobile home alongside the A35 near Dorchester following a route inspection on Wednesday 21 October.

"Following enquiries, it appears the static caravan had been deposited the previous evening.

"We had started a legal process to remove the structure from the verge but, following the fire, dealt with by Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service this morning, we will now be looking to remove the remains as soon as it is safe to do so."

Dorset Police said its officers attended to assist the fire service and left the scene at around 03:00.

A police spokesperson said: "The cause of the fire has not been confirmed at this time."