A coach driver from the Bristol area has been arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving while unfit through drink or drugs after his vehicle crashed early Thursday morning. The coach, carrying 29 schoolchildren, left a main road and ended up in a ditch near Ower, Hampshire.
The incident occurred at approximately 5:10 am close to the junction of the A36 and the M27. Although the coach was traveling from the Bristol area, specific details about the school or departure location have not been disclosed.
Thankfully, all 29 children on board escaped without injury. Among the four accompanying teachers, one suffered a minor leg injury treated at the scene. The driver, a 48-year-old man from Hungerford, Berkshire, also sustained minor injuries and was taken to Southampton General Hospital as a precaution.
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Hampshire Constabulary confirmed the driver’s arrest on suspicion of dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drink or drugs. He remains in custody as investigations continue. The school has been informed, and all parents have been contacted following the incident.
After a complex recovery operation, the road where the crash occurred has since reopened. Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward to assist with their inquiries.