A busy road popular with holidaymakers has been closed following a crash involving six vehicles, including a lorry and a caravan.

Police, the fire brigade and ambulance service were called at 7.40am on Wednesday following the collision on the A30 at Cheriton Bishop, Devon.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the HGV had overturned on its side and several people have been injured, including two who are believed to be seriously hurt.

Sales manager Gary Bayley, from Exmouth, witnessed the scene, which was also attended by the air ambulance.

The 48-year-old told the PA news agency: “It looks like a fairground lorry, one that carries all the rides to different sites, has gone through the central reservation into oncoming traffic.

“It appears to have hit another car on the way, which was squashed and not a pretty sight at all.

“If there isn’t a fatality … I would be very surprised.”

A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesman said: “Both carriageways are closed and are likely to remain shut for some time.

“Diversions are in place westbound at Fingle Glen/Pathfinder and eastbound at Woodleigh Junction.

“Police are advising motorists to avoid the area if possible for the time being.”

The A30 is a busy arterial route connecting Devon and Cornwall with London and is popular with tourists flocking to the South West of England during holidays.