A 10-year-old boy has been confirmed as the child who died in a school coach crash in Somerset on Thursday. The coach overturned on its way back from a trip to Exmoor Zoo, carrying pupils from Minehead Middle School. Police said 21 passengers were taken to hospital, with four children and three adults still receiving treatment.
The coach, which was the only vehicle involved, left the road between Wheddon Cross and Timberscombe, plunging 20ft down an embankment. The driver remains in hospital in a stable condition, and school routes operated by Ridlers Coaches have been suspended. Two children were airlifted to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children.
Flowers have been placed outside Minehead Middle School as the community mourns. Headteacher Laura Mackie said she was 'completely heartbroken,' adding that 'the loss is unimaginable.' Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the news as 'heartbreaking' and offered his thoughts to the family.
Emergency services, including Avon and Somerset Police, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue, and air ambulances, attended the scene. Volunteers from Exmoor Search and Rescue provided first aid at a nearby pub. The school remains closed as investigations continue.
