A HEREFORDSHIRE fire crew has been delayed en route to a house fire because inconsiderately parked cars did not leave enough space for a fire engine to get through.

Whitchurch fire station was called to reports of a house fire in Symonds Yat, near Ross-on-Wye, but had trouble reaching the scene.

"Crews from Whitchurch fire station and Ross-on-Wye fire station attended a house fire in Symonds Yat West," a spokesperson said.

"Unfortunately, on the way to the incident the crews were delayed due to parked cars which did not leave enough room for a fire engine to get through.

"Please be considerate when parking your car, and as the population of the Wye Valley increases three times due to tourism in the summer months, please be considerate when parking.

"If you own a holiday home, guest house or B&B please asks your guests to park considerately."

The fire, at a house on Hill Crest, was likely caused by intense sun relfecting through a window, a Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said.

The crews were called at 8.45am on Monday morning and were still at the scene more than two hours later after the fire in a first floor lounge.

The fire service has reminded people not to leave reflective items in places where the sun could hit them, as if the light is intensified, it can cause fire.