Schoolchildren rescued from wreckage after Somerset coach collision

Scores of schoolchildren returning from a day trip have been involved in a serious crash involving a coach on a country road in Somerset.

Dozens of emergency crews responded after the incident on Thursday afternoon and firefighters had to free some of the passengers. Some casualties were taken to hospital.

A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset police said: ‘‘A major incident has been declared as emergency services work together to respond to a collision involving a coach on the A396 this afternoon.

‘‘We understand the coach was carrying approximately 60-70 people and was heading to Minehead middle school at the time.

‘‘We can confirm a number of casualties have been conveyed to hospital.

‘‘The large majority of passengers have been taken to a rest centre in Wheddon Cross and we are working with the school to help them return at the earliest opportunity.

‘‘Officers are at the school to help with that process, and we would ask any parents to please head there.

‘‘The road remains closed. We’d please ask people avoid the area so emergency services’ response to this incident is not impacted.”

The incident happened on the A396 Cutcombe Hill road, between Wheddon Cross and Timberscombe.

In a statement released earlier police said firefighters were working to free some passengers.

The coach company, Ridlers, said one of its 70-seat vehicles was involved.

Peter Prior-Sankey, director of Ridlers, said: “We were made aware of an incident involving one of our 70-seater vehicles at about 3.15pm this afternoon, understood to have taken place as a group of school pupils were returning from a day trip.

“We have since been liaising with both the school and the emergency services while we try to understand the extent of the incident.

“Everyone within the Ridlers team is of course deeply concerned and anxious to find out more detail – particularly concerning the welfare of the driver and passengers.

“While we wait for further information from police and other emergency teams, our hearts of course go out to the school pupils and to our driver.

“We will be doing everything possible to understand what has happened.”

Heidi Alexander, the transport secretary, said: “I’m aware of the serious incident involving a bus near Minehead, Somerset. My thoughts are with all those involved. The emergency services are on scene, and I am receiving regular updates on the situation.”

The MP for Tiverton and Minehead, Rachel Gilmour, said: “I have heard news about a distressing road traffic incident around Wheddon Cross this afternoon. Emergency services are present, so please give them space to work. My thoughts are with all involved in the incident. I’d advise everyone travelling across Exmoor this afternoon/evening to check their route before beginning their journey.”

Flight path records suggested air ambulances flew from the scene to Bristol Royal Infirmary. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has deployed crews from across the south west to the scene.