A Herefordshire road was closed by what police describe at a vehicle explosion.

It was caused, according to West Midlands Ambulance Service, by gas cylinders catching fire in the rear of a van.

A spokesman said: "“Thankfully, the driver managed to get out of the vehicle before it was consumed by the fire."

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The driver, a man in his 40s, was taken to Hereford County Hospital to receive treatment for his injuries.

The A44 was shut for about three hours, and there were lengthy traffic delays.

The road was closed both ways and there was queueing traffic around the Shobdon/Marston turn.

Delays also affected traffic between Pembridge/Kington and Marston.

The road had  re-opened by 11.30am.