Exmoor Zoo has expressed deep sorrow following a devastating coach crash that claimed the life of a Year 5 pupil from Minehead Middle School and injured dozens more. The students had been visiting the zoo on July 17 and were en route home when the coach slid 20 feet into a ravine beside the A396 between Wheddon Cross and Timbercombe.
Two children sustained serious injuries and were airlifted to hospital. The tragedy has left the community in shock, with tributes pouring in at Minehead Middle School in memory of the child who died and in support of those affected.
The zoo described the pupils as a “lovely, lively, well-behaved group” in a heartfelt statement shared on Facebook. “Fate has been so cruel to this wonderful group of children,” the zoo said, extending thoughts, prayers, and blessings to everyone involved—including the children, families, teachers, and emergency responders.
READ MORE: Council Leader Urges Caution After Child Dies in Minehead Coach Crash
READ MORE: Man Pleads Guilty to Upskirting Teenage Girls in Tesco Store
Minehead Middle School’s staff and community have come together in solidarity. A teacher shared on social media, “My amazing students have shown incredible bravery and support for one another in this life-changing event. We will get through this together." The school’s website notes that this trip was part of the Year 5 Enrichment Week activities.
Ridlers Coaches, the company operating the bus, confirmed their driver remains in stable condition following the crash. Director Peter Prior-Sankey extended condolences to the families affected and praised the emergency services and community support efforts. Ridlers Coaches has temporarily suspended school routes to Minehead as discussions continue regarding affected services.
As the community mourns and supports one another, Exmoor Zoo, the school, families, and emergency teams continue to navigate the aftermath of this tragic accident.