A CHILD who died in a school bus crash was 10 years old, with six others remaining in hospital.
Emergency services were called to the scene after theat around 3pm yesterday.
Up to 70 people – children and adults travelling to Minehead Middle School – were understood to have been on the coach.
The vehicle left the road, on the A396 at Cutcombe Hill, between Wheddon Cross and Timberscombe.
It overturned and came to rest about 20 feet (six metres) from the roadway, down a steep slope.
Recovery of the vehicle and collision investigation are complex, and police expect the road to remain closed for a considerable time.
Chief Superintendent Mark Edgington said: “On behalf of the emergency services, I would like to thank the 24 volunteers from Exmoor Search and Rescue who carried out first aid triage at the rest centre and have rope and search skills.
“I also pass on thanks to the staff of the Rest and Be Thankful pub at Wheddon Cross, which opened its doors as the rest centre.
“Of course, we also recognise the efforts of Minehead Middle School, for keeping parents and carers informed and providing support to the school community during what is a difficult and distressing time for them all.”;
Mr Edgington appealed for witnesses to the collision to come forward.
He added: “Please avoid speculating about the circumstances on social media, to prevent additional distress for the children, their families, the school community, staff and the driver, who are all deeply affected by what’s happened.
“Our thoughts go out to all those involved, their families, friends and colleagues.”;
