A school bus carrying between 60 and 70 passengers crashed on the A396 near Cutcombe Hill in Somerset, prompting a major incident declaration on Thursday, July 17, at approximately 3 p.m. The bus was returning students to Minehead Middle School following a day trip.
Emergency services, including Avon and Somerset Police, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, and medical teams, quickly responded to the scene. Several individuals were transported to hospital, while most passengers were taken to a rest center in Wheddon Cross for care and support.
Avon and Somerset Police issued a statement at 6:30 p.m. confirming the situation: “A major incident has been declared as emergency responders coordinate efforts following a collision involving a coach on the A396. We understand the coach was carrying approximately 60-70 people and was en route to Minehead Middle School. Several casualties have been conveyed to hospital, and a large majority have been taken to a rest center. Officers are currently at the school assisting with reunification efforts, and parents are advised to proceed there.”
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The road remains closed as emergency teams continue their response, and authorities have urged the public to avoid the area to allow unobstructed access for emergency crews.
The coach operator, Ridlers, expressed deep concern about the incident. Director Peter Prior-Sankey stated, “We were alerted to the incident involving one of our 70-seater coaches at about 3:15 p.m. today. The vehicle was carrying school pupils returning from a day trip. We are in close contact with the school and emergency services to assess the situation. Our thoughts are with the driver and all passengers. We are committed to understanding what occurred and providing support.”
Witnesses reported seeing multiple emergency vehicles, including air ambulances, at the scene. Parents and guardians are urged to remain calm and follow instructions from emergency personnel.