A classic sports car was reduced to cinders after it caught fire on a main road.
The yellow Lotus – thought to be a nearly 60-year-old Lotus Elan Plus 2 – was completely destroyed in the blaze.
It was worth up to £25,000.
Firefighters rushed to the scene, where they took control of the fire.
READ MORE: Bodycam footage exposes moment ex-EFL ref was arrested for ‘child sex abuse’ offences
The blaze happened on the A38 near Exeter, Devon, yesterday (5 Oct).
A spokesperson said: “By 9am, Newton Abbot fire station was already being mobilised to its fourth emergency call of the day.
“The latest alert was to assist colleagues from Middlemoor fire station to reports of a vehicle fire on the A38 at the bottom of Harcombe bends on the main A38.
“Middlemoor fire station was already in attendance and dealing with one vehicle that was well alight.
“The incident commander had committed two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus to tackle the fire using a hose reel jet.
“The crew of Newton Abbot fire station assisted in other firefighting operations at the incident, as well as ensuring the scene was safe by blocking one of the lanes off with our fire appliance.
“It didn’t take long for crews to extinguish the fire; however, the classic Lotus sports car that was unfortunately involved was totally destroyed by the blaze.
“Although this was a great opportunity to work alongside our colleagues once again, we would like to take this opportunity to pass on our sympathies to the owner of the vehicle and wish them all the best going forward.”
Locals expressed their sadness over the car being destroyed, as reported by Need To Know.
One said: “Back in the 60s & 70s this was not uncommon with Lotuses.
“What used to happen, flames would spit back from the trumpets on the carburettors setting fire to the fibreglass bonnet.
“I don’t know if they were modified with a fireproof coating on the underside of the bonnet above the carburettors but perhaps this one didn’t have that.
“Such a shame to see any car especially a classic like that which would have taken hours of painstaking toil and care destroyed like that in minuets!
“The important thing was that no one physically was hurt although it must have been heartbreaking for the owner!
“As an old petrolhead I feel for them!”
Another added: “Sad to see another classic lost. I always check my fuel lines regularly, can never be over safe especially with older and classic cars!
“Carry a quality fire extinguisher thats in date or serviced, could save your life and your car.”
While another said: “It’s a Lotus Elan plus 2 and I always carry a fire extinguisher in my cars not that it would have necessarily helped in this case.
“Very sad to see.”
READ MORE: Dodgy driver nearly crashes into central reservation whilst swerving on motorway
