Tributes outside school after child dies and 21 injured in Minehead coach crash

A devastating coach crash involving pupils from Minehead Middle School occurred on a return trip from the zoo in Exmoor, Somerset. The coach, one of two transporting up to 70 people, overturned and slid down a bank on the A396 at Cutcombe Hill. Tragically, one child died and 21 others were injured in the accident. Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, and the injured were taken to local hospitals for treatment. The coach company, Ridlers, confirmed the crash involved the second vehicle that left the zoo slightly later than the first, which returned safely.

Following the crash, the director of Ridlers, Peter Prior-Sankey, said the coach driver is in a stable condition in hospital. He expressed deep sorrow over the incident and confirmed the company’s ongoing support for the driver's family and the affected school community. School transport services into Minehead have been paused while further discussions take place. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the crash as "heartbreaking" and extended his condolences to the families involved. The tragedy has left the small town of Minehead reeling, as many residents know the families affected. Local roads remain closed, and six schools, including Minehead Middle School, are shut today as the community grieves.

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The town of Minehead is in mourning as tributes pour in following the tragic school coach crash. Outside Minehead Middle School, a growing number of people have been laying flowers, cards, and soft toys. Messages from fellow schools, local families, and strangers express deep sorrow and unity. One tribute included a pink dragon toy with a note that read, "RIP little one, fly high with the angels." Another card said, "Our community is holding you all tight and surrounding you with love." Parents and residents, many visibly emotional, have shared their grief and solidarity. Waren Roland, a local parent, visited the school gates and said it was "heartbreaking" and difficult not to think of his own children. Lianna O’Connor, who also laid flowers, noted that while the second coach crashed, the children on the first coach, who returned safely, are also deeply affected. One Facebook user said his daughter was on the first coach and many of her friends were on the one that crashed, emphasizing the emotional toll across the school community. Local institutions have joined in showing support. Staff from Kingsmead School left a card offering thoughts for "all the children, parents, staff and transport," while Old Cleeve Preschool sent prayers to those affected. The school and town remain somber as families comfort one another and try to process the tragedy. The crash has deeply impacted the close-knit Minehead community, where most people know one another. The outpouring of love and tributes at the school gates reflects a collective grief and a determination to support those most affected by the heartbreaking loss.

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