A CAR burst into flames after an engine malfunction.

Stunned parents and children on the school run watched on as the blaze took hold in the car in Ladysmith Avenue, Brightlingsea, shortly before 9am on Thursday.

One onlooker said the driver had pulled over but realised something was wrong.

"The engine was overheating and the temperature was going up," she said.

"She could see it was getting hotter and hotter so she got out.

Gazette:

"Someone then pointed out it was on fire because they could see it reflecting on the wet road.

"The fire brigade came straight out and said it was probably a mechanical problem.

"She got well out the way and everyone steered clear.

"It was during the school run so lots of people saw what was happening."