FIREFIGHTERS are still supervising the investigation of a major gas leak in Stratton.

A mains pipe is being fixed by the utilities company near the White Hart pub on Oxford Road. A cordon is in place and part of the road is closed in both directions.

Traffic is queueing and the closure is affecting vehicles approaching and leaving Swindon near the A420,

The fire service expects to be there for a few more hours.

People are advised to avoid the area.

Police were called to the scene at 2pm and closed Oxford Road up to Nythe Road.

 A Wiltshire Police spokesman said: "Engineers working to repair a damaged gas main which has forced the closure of Oxford Road, anticipate that it will be many hours before the road will be open to traffic again.
"Motorists are asked to avoid the area as repair work continues overnight."

A DWFRS spokesman urged people to not set off any fireworks in the area as it would pose "a huge risk" to members of the public and firefighters.

UPDATE: This is what caused the gas leak