FIREFIGHTERS have urged drivers to avoid the A64 if possible as they remain at the scene of a car fire.

Crews from York, Acomb and Tadcaster have been tackling the fire - between Bilbrough and Copmanthorpe - since 11.36am.

Lane one of the A64 is closed Eastbound with the affected area between the A1237 (Copmanthorpe /Askham Richard) junction and the A659 (Oxton).

North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue said: "The car is well alight and they're using 2BA and a hosereel. Avoid the area if possible."

Traffic officers from Highways England are also in attendance.

At 12.41pm, Highways England said: "If you're heading #A64 #Tadcaster Please be aware there is approx. 5 miles of congestion on approach to the lane 1 closure between #A659 and #A1237. Please add an extra 45 minutes on to your current journey time."

Highways England added: "Once the fire is out, we’ll work to get some lanes open ASAP."

Emergency repairs will be conducted once safe, the organisation confirmed.