Several cars parked near a van in Harpenden were scorched when the vehicle caught alight at around midday today (Monday).

A spokesman for Harpenden Fire Station said that firefighters were called to Ox Lane at 12.43pm - 12 calls were received by concerned members of the public.

The van was used as a mobile wheelie bin cleaner, and it is believed that it might have contained a generator to power jet washing equipment.

The spokesman said: “When we arrived it was fully alight. We used two hose reels and breathing apparatus while extinguishing the fire.”

Several cars parked in the street were scorched by the intense heat, along with a telephone cable, which snapped.

Firefighters remained at the scene until 2.18pm, dampening down the burnt-out van and other vehicles.

A spokeswoman for Herts Police said: “We were not required to attend and will be notified if any police involvement is needed going forward.”

Also today, a small refuse fire was extinguished at Kimpton’s recreation ground. A spokeswoman for Herts Fire and Rescue Service said that a fire crew from Welwyn Garden City was called to the “accidental fire” at 3.10pm, with the blaze extinguished by 3.40pm.