Major incident declared after coach crashes in Somerset on way back from school trip
Emergency services are responding to a collision on the A396 Cutcombe Hill, between Wheddon Cross and Timbercombe, according to Avon and Somerset Police.
There have been a number of casualties who have been taken to hospital.
The coach, which had 60-70 people on board, reportedly left the road near the junction with Ashwell Lane and Steart Lane around 3pm today. It had been heading to Minehead Middle School at the time.
The force said most of the passengers have been taken off the coach.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service were working to free the remaining occupants and South Western Ambulance Service are also on the scene, said police.
Peter Prior-Sankey, director of coach operator Ridlers, told Sky News he "was made aware of an incident involving one of our 70-seater vehicles at about 3.15pm this afternoon".
"We have since been liaising with both the school, and the emergency services, while we try to understand the extent of the incident," he said.
"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."
Avon and Somerset Police said: "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 A396 remains closed and the force is asking people to avoid the area.
In a post on X, local MP 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."
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she is "aware of the serious incident" and "receiving regular updates on the situation".
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