Child dies after South West school coach overturns on return from zoo trip

The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon on the A396 Cutcombe Hill, between Wheddon Cross and Timberscombe, when the coach overturned and slid approximately six metres (20ft) down an embankment, coming to rest on its roof.

Emergency services, including ambulance crews, air ambulances, and multiple fire units, responded in large numbers to the scene. Firefighters worked to rescue several passengers who were trapped in the vehicle.

According to police, 21 people were taken to hospital by ambulance and air ambulance. Some sustained serious injuries, while others were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

An off-duty firefighter who was driving behind the coach at the time of the crash was among the first to assist, helping both children and adults before emergency crews arrived.

Ridlers, the coach company involved, confirmed that one of its 70-seat vehicles was part of the incident.

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.

“The coach was carrying approximately 60-70 people and was heading to Minehead middle school at the time.

“The large majority of passengers were 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.”