REACTION is continuing after the tragic school coach crash near Minehead that killed a child – and left 21 people injured.

The incident, which happened on the A396 near Wheddon Cross at around 3pm on Thursday (July 17), saw a Ridlers coach transporting Minehead Middle School pupils home after a trip to Exmoor Zoo leave the road, flip, and slide 20ft down a bank.

The devastating tragedy has left the community – locally and nationally – reeling, with the Prime Minister among those expressing their sympathies.

This morning (July 18), Minehead Town Council has issued a statement on the tragic crash.

It said: “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic incident today involving children from Minehead Middle School. Our hearts go out to all those affected. The children, their families, their friends and the wider school community.

“As a close-knit community, we are devastated by this news. The impact of this event will be felt by many, and we stand in solidarity with everyone affected during this incredibly difficult time.

“We would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to the emergency services for their swift response, professionalism and unwavering dedication throughout the afternoon.

“Our thoughts remain with all those involved.”

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Minehead vicars Rev Philip Butcher and Rev Michelle Butcher sent their thoughts and prayers to those affected.

They said: “The bus tragedy involving staff and pupils is beyond comprehension. Our thoughts and prayers our with all at Minehead Middle School, and the whole Beacon Education Trust.

“It is utterly heartbreaking that a young life has been lost, and our deepest condolences go to their family.

“We pray for all those in mourning tonight in these most dreadful circumstances; those who are in hospital receiving care for their injuries; and all who have been hurt physically and emotionally today.

“The whole Minehead community has been rocked by this tragedy. St Andrew’s will be open tomorrow specifically as a hub where people can come and be, talk, be listening to, pray, think, whatever you need.”

Rachel Gilmour, MP for Tiverton & Minehead. Picture: Somerset Leveller

MP Rachel Gilmour (Lib Dem, Tiverton & Minehead) said she was “absolutely devastated” by the news.

“I know that everyone in this fantastic community of Tiverton and Minehead, but particularly those close to the loved one of the children and staff involved, will come together to provide care, love and support at this time.

“I am so proud to come from this community and, as a mother and member of the public, I know that we will be strong and support one another in this awful moment of tragedy.

“I want to thank all the emergency services who were there for their diligent and courageous work, and Eric at the Rest and Be Thankful, who took people in to allow for a place of rest among all this hurt.

“Now is not a time for speculation or politics, but a time for community.

“I will do everything in my power to support everyone I can.”

A spokesperson from the Exmoor Conservation Group said: “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by yesterday’s terrible tragedy involving children and staff from Minehead Middle School.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the child who lost their life, and wish a speedy recovery to those who were injured.

“Thank you to the emergency services and the public who responded with dedication and compassion.

“At times like this, words don’t seem enough to express how we all feel. We are grateful for Exmoor’s tight-knit community and hope that those affected know that they are in all our thoughts and prayers.”

Taunton School has also shared their sorrow at the incident, saying: “The Taunton School community is extremely shocked and saddened by the tragic incident affecting Minehead Middle School.

“Our hearts go out to everyone affected. We are thinking of you all at this most difficult time.”

Martin Straus, Mayor of Taunton, has expressed solidarity with Minehead after the crash. Picture: Taunton Town Council

Mayor of Taunton, Cllr Martin Straus, also sent his condolences to the people of Minehead.

“On behalf of the people of Taunton, the Mayor, Councillor Straus, wishes to express his deepest condolences following the tragic incident involving students from Minehead Middle School,” a Taunton Town Council spokesperson said.

“Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and school community affected at this incredibly difficult time. We also extend our sincere thanks to the emergency services from Taunton, Somerset and beyond for their swift and compassionate response.

“In times like these, we are reminded of the strength and kindness of our communities. We stand with Minehead now and we will continue to pull together and support one another in the days and weeks ahead.”

Wellington School has also expressed sympathy with Minehead Middle School. A statement said: “The entire Wellington School community is deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the tragic events involving Minehead Middle School.

“Our hearts go out to all families, students, staff, and wider community during this incredibly difficult time.”

To support people in the town affected by the incident, the Minehead Eye Well Being and Youth Work Team has opened the centre for the day “to offer any help we can at this extremely difficult and challenging time”.

A spokesperson added: “We’ve opened our doors at the centre for the day for any young person or families that feel they would welcome some support, a chance to process things, or get further contacts or advice if they’d wish for it.

“As a community, we all just want to help and support where best we can. Our heart goes out to everyone at the school.”

Mind in Somerset is also available on 01823 276892. For more details see mindinsomerset.org.uk/our-services/adult-one-to-one-support/mindline.