THIS dramatic picture is of the bus which burst into flames in West Kingsdown this morning. (April 22)

Two fire engines and police were called to London Road after the single-decker burst into flames at about 7am.

The driver of the 478 Arriva bus heading towards Swanley tried to put out the blaze using a fire extinguisher after he saw smoke billowing out of the rear.

However, the fire quickly spread and he had to get out.

Police were called at 7.05am and the driver was already safely out of the vehicle by the time officers arrived.

Firefighters put out of the fire which caused 90 cent damage to the bus, while officers helped control traffic and left the scene at 9.10am.

Richard Lewis, Arriva’s regional publicity manager, said “There were no passengers on board and our driver quickly attempted to extinguish the fire with the vehicle’s fire extinguisher after he saw smoke coming from the rear.

“Unfortunately, the fire took hold very quickly and it was not possible to stop it from spreading. The cause of the fire is being investigated.”

Did you see what happened?

Contact the newsdesk on 01689 885734 or e-mail sam.christie@london.newsquest.co.uk