London double-decker bus bursts into flames on busy high street (VIDEO)

A double decker bus became engulfed in flames during the Friday morning rush hour as it was driving through a busy high street in Kingston, south west London.

Photographs and videos posted to social media show flames taking over the entire rear of the vehicle as streets around it were cleared.

The bus caught fire shortly after 9am. The fire was extinguished about an hour later.

Kingston Police confirmed on Twitter that there were no severe casualties. The driver had to be treated at the scene for smoke inhalation and was taken to hospital, but no one else was injured.

It is not known what caused the fire. Transport for London confirmed that a full investigation would be launched over the incident.

A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade said two fire engines were sent out to deal with the blaze.

Police evacuated nearby homes and businesses as a safety precaution.