Police, ambulance, fire and air ambulance crews were called to the scene
Emergency crews are rescuing passengers from a bus following a crash on the A396(Image: Mark Passmore / SWNS)
A major incident has been declared after a bus carrying between 60 and 70 people crashed near Minehead this afternoon, Thursday, July 17.
The crash happened on the A396 Cutcombe Hill, between Wheddon Cross and Timbercombe and it is believed it was returning to a middle school after a day trip.
An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: “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.”
Peter Prior-Sankey, director of local coach operator 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.”
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In a post on social media, Rachel Gilmour, MP for Tiverton and Minehead, 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.”
The Transport Secretary said she was being kept updated on the crash.
Heidi Alexander 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.”
Beacon Education MAT which runs Minehead Middle School said: “We are working closely with the emergency services and relevant authorities following an incident this afternoon to support our pupils, families, and staff at this very difficult time.
“We will update our school community further as soon as more information becomes available, and we kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we manage this evolving situation with care and sensitivity.”