Drivers have been warned not to obstruct emergency vehicles after cars were spotted parked opposite a Wiltshire fire station.

Double yellow lines are in place outside Chippenham Fire Station on Dallas Road and cover the length of the station to avoid fire engines becoming blocked during an emergency.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has been forced to issue a warning to drivers in the area after multiple cars were pictured parked opposite the station.

The public has been urged to keep the road clear of parked cars in order to prevent any delays to emergency services.

The Chippenham Fire StationThe Chippenham Fire Station (Image: Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service)

The entire width of the road is often needed for large appliances to turn and exit the station.

In particular, people should avoid parking on double yellow lines during peak congestion times such as school pick-up and drop-off.

A spokesperson for the fire service added: “This area needs to be kept clear at all times, even more so school pick-up times when the area becomes even more congested.

“We have large fire engines that require the entire width of the road to turn out due to the turning circle needed.

“We politely ask locals to refrain from parking here in future.”