Rachel Gilmour, the MP for Tiverton and Minehead, was visibly emotional outside Minehead Middle School after a tragic coach accident resulted in the death of a 10-year-old boy and left 21 others injured. The crash occurred on July 17th on the A396 when a coach carrying nearly 70 school pupils and their chaperones overturned and slid 20 feet down a steep embankment.
The children had been returning from a day trip to Exmoor Zoo when the accident happened. Two children were airlifted to Bristol Children’s Hospital with serious injuries, while four other children and three adults remain hospitalized. Minehead Middle School has received an outpouring of tributes and support from the local community.
Ms Gilmour described herself as “completely distraught” upon hearing the news. Speaking outside the school alongside headteacher Laura Mackie, she said, “When someone becomes an MP, the focus tends to be on issues like the NHS or farming, not tragedies like this. But this is what being a community MP is truly about.”
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The MP expressed the shock felt throughout the community and the emotional impact of the incident. “I’m known to be a big hugger, so I’ve been offering a lot of comfort today,” she shared. “I spoke with a father whose daughter was on the bus. There’s nothing I can do to change what happened or ease the pain, but I’m trying to stay pragmatic so I can provide the help that’s needed.”
Working closely with Somerset Council, Ms Gilmour is seeking funding from central government to support recovery therapies and aid for the children and families affected. She praised the resilience and unity of Minehead’s tight-knit community, highlighting how residents come together in times of crisis.
The coach left the road, overturned, and landed about six meters down a steep slope. Recovery and investigation efforts are ongoing, with the road expected to remain closed for some time.
Chief Superintendent Mark Edgington thanked the emergency services, including 24 volunteers from Exmoor Search and Rescue, for their invaluable assistance in first aid and rescue operations. He also acknowledged the support provided by local businesses, such as the Rest and Be Thankful pub, which served as a rest center, and Minehead Middle School for keeping families informed during this distressing period.
Superintendent Edgington appealed for witnesses to come forward but urged the public to refrain from speculation on social media to avoid causing further distress to those affected.
“Our thoughts remain with everyone involved—the children, families, school staff, and driver—during this profoundly difficult time,” he said.