TRAFFIC heading eastbound on the A38 has been brought to a standstill this afternoon due to a fire in a field that has spread to the central reservation.

Three appliances from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service are currently at the scene between East Rattery and Lower Dean.

Crews were called just before 2.30pm after a fire started near the eastbound carriageway, before spreading into the central reservation.

Firefighters are using fire beaters and two hose reel jets to tackle the blaze and prevent it from spreading further.

Around 50 metres by 20 metres of field has been affected, while the fire in the central reservation is estimated to measure around 100 metres in length.

The eastbound carriageway is currently closed.

The westbound carriageway was closed for a time, but has since reopened.

There is significant congestion from the B3380 at Lower Dean to the A384 junction for Dartbridge, with queues stretching back to the Marley Head junction.

Drivers are being advised to avoid the area and allow extra time for their journeys while firefighters work to bring the blaze under control.