THE trust that oversees Minehead Middle School – whose pupils were involved in the tragic coach crash yesterday – has closed all of its schools and nurseries today.

Beacon Education said it had taken the decision after the tragic crash, which saw one child pass away and 21 others injured, on the A396 at Cutcombe Hill, near Wheddon Cross, on Thursday afternoon (July 17).

The move will see six schools and four nurseries in Minehead and Williton close. They are: Minehead Middle School, Danesfield Church of England School, Minehead First School, St Michael’s CofE First School, Old Cleeve CofE School, Teddy Bears Nursery, St Peter’s CofE First School, St Peter’s Nursery, King Edward Road Nursery.

READ MORE: Minehead community united in grief after tragic school coach crash
READ MORE: Child killed and 21 injured in school coach tragedy near Minehead

“The incident has had a very significant impact on our children, families and staff and as a whole community we are all deeply affected by what has happened,” a statement from chair of trustees, Andy Giles, said.

“Our hearts and our prayers go out to all the families most directly impacted and we are all deeply saddened by the events that have taken place.”

He said parents would be informed of support being put in place for children.

“We are very grateful to the local authority for the support of their team, who will be assisting us in providing support for children and staff,” he went on.

“We hope you will understand that we need time to plan and also time to work with our staff and we will let you know as soon as we have more information on our next steps.”