100 children in hospital after coaches crash

More than 100 children were taken to hospital today after two school coaches were involved in a collision with a lorry.

It is believed that up to 25 children suffered minor injuries following the crash outside the Lydiate Church, in Southport, Merseyside.

A spokesman for Merseyside Police said: "We don't know the details of what happened but we do know that there have been a number of minor injuries.

"About 100 children have been taken to hospital to be checked out," he added.

Kevin Mulcahy of Merseyside Ambulance Service, said that 77 children and 18

adults had been transported from the scene to hospital.

"None have been seriously injured. Most of them are suffering from minor cuts and bruises as well as shock."

He said that six paramedic ambulances were sent to the scene as well as three patient transport vehicles which can carry up to 10 children.

A local bus firm was commandeered by the ambulance service to transport a further 35 children to hospital. All casualties were being taken to Ormskirk Hospital.

Mr Mulcahy added: "Following that initial assessment some will be moved to Southport District Hospital."

The children involved in the crash were all from St Teresa's Junior School, in

Norris Green, Merseyside.

Headteacher Michael Robb travelled to the hospital to be with his pupils.

The spokesman for Merseyside Police added: "One double decker would appear to have gone into the back of another. We believe that an HGV was also involved but we can't confirm that."