July 30, 2005
Coach fire causes M5 motorway chaos at Burnham-On-Sea

Coach passengers were treated for smoke inhalation onboard a vehicle that caught fire on the M5 motorway near Burnham on Saturday afternoon, July 30.

Smoke was seen pouring from the engine of the coach as it travelled north between junctions 23 for Bridgwater and 22 for Burnham.

Three ambulances and two fire engines were called to the scene, and paramedics were seen treating passengers for the effects of smoke inhalation.

Two lanes of the northbound carriageway were closed, and traffic was at a complete standstill in both directions for several hours - causing huge tailbacks. The A38 was also slow moving as motorists sought alternative routes.

RELATED LINKS:

Burnham-On-Sea Travel Information

Avon and Somerset Constabulary