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A bus burst into flames and engulfed a road in smoke, prompting fears there was an explosion.

The 142 bus, which runs between Brent Cross and Watford Junction, was parked in Edgware Station at about 6pm this evening when it caught fire.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes as smoke billowed from the vehicle and police officers ushered passers-by away. Trains were temporarily cancelled, while traffic was also on diversion.

Twitter users sparked chaos by suggesting the bus fire was an explosion, but it became apparent the blaze was caused by an engine fault.

The fire was under control by 8pm after fire fighters battled with the flames.

Police confirmed there have been no arrests and no criminal activity is suspected, with the cause of the fire believed to be a mechanical fault.

Rabab Imad, who was passing-by, said: “I was walking out of Broadwalk Shopping Centre to go to Edgware Station - then I see a crowd of people and bus drivers telling us to clear the area as the Fire Brigade are coming.

“Right near the station, the 142 bus was burning and there was smoke everywhere.”