Thames Water van engulfed in flames on the side of a road in Essex

These incredible photos show the moment a Thames Water van was engulfed in flames on the side of the road in Essex.

The van was consumed by the blaze on the hard shoulder in Waltham Abbey on Monday.

The Dowding Way bypass was closed off as two fire engines tackled the fire, the cause of which is unknown.

There were no reports of any injuries.

A spokeswoman for Essex County Fire Brigade said: “The brigade were called at 12.34pm and sent two fire engines.

“Fire crew found the van 100 per cent on fire.

“It was extinguished by 1.07pm.”

Thames Water spokesman Stuart White said: “We would like to thank the fire service for their assistance and are investigating what caused the fire.”