A section of the A39 has been closed in both directions this afternoon (Saturday, 12 July) as fire crews respond to a major field fire between Glastonbury and Wells.

The blaze broke out near Wells Road, prompting emergency services to close the route between Tin Bridge Roundabout in Glastonbury and the Polsham turn-off.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue said: "A section of the A39 between Glastonbury and Street is currently closed due to a field fire. We are working closely with the police, and a diversion route is in place. Please allow extra time for your journey."

The fire was first reported shortly after 3.30pm. Crews remain at the scene and traffic is being diverted.

A police spokesperson added: "The A39 is closed between Glastonbury [and] Wells following a wildfire in the area reported to police around 3.30pm. Road users are asked to avoid the area and not to ignore road closures."

The closure is causing disruption for anyone travelling between Glastonbury and Wells, with fire crews urging people to stay away where possible.

It comes as Somerset braces for a weekend of scorching temperatures, with highs of 30C forecast from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 July. Firefighters have warned the ongoing heatwave has increased the risk of wildfires breaking out.

We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.