A MAN has died after his car hit a railway bridge in a Somerset hamlet this morning.

Police say his vehicle struck the bridge in Standerwick, Frome, just before 6.50am today (Thursday, May 12).

The 36-year-old man, who was local to the area, died at the scene of the incident in Berkley Street.

Reports say the car burst into flames after hitting the bridge near Frome Market.

The road was closed for a number of hours as police investigators examined the scene.

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: "We’re investigating a collision in which a man has died after his car struck a railway bridge in Standerwick this morning (Thursday 12 May).

"The incident happened in Berkley Street at just before 6.50am.

"A 36-year-old man, from the local area, sadly died at the scene.

"His family are being supported by a trained liaison officer and our thoughts are with them.

"If anyone witnessed this collision, please contact us."

If you can help, call police on 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5222111980 or complete the Avon and Somerset Police online appeals form.