One child has died after a bus carrying schoolchildren in Somerset overturned, police have confirmed.
The vehicle was taking pupils back to Minehead Middle School when it "left the road" following a day trip this afternoon, Avon and Somerset police said in an earlier statement.
The vehicle overturned onto its roof and slid 20ft down an embankment, Devon and Somerset Fire Service chief, Gavin Ellis, confirmed.
The incident happened on the A396 Cutcombe Hill, between Wheddon Cross and Timbercombe, near Minehead, just before 3pm.
Police said in a statement this evening that formal identification of the victim will need to be carried out, adding their "thoughts and sympathies" were with the family.
A total of 21 people were taken to hospital following the crash, some with serious injuries.
This includes two children who were taken to hospital by air ambulance.
Other passengers - who suffered either minor injuries or were physically unharmed - were transferred to a rest centre.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
PA | A child has died following the crash in Somerset this afternoon
"An investigation into the cause of the incident will be carried out and we’d please ask any witnesses to please call 101," Avon and Somerset Police said.
"We would please ask people avoid speculation around the circumstances at this time, out of respect for the families, staff and the driver who will all be deeply affected by this collision, as that is likely to only add to their distress."
Around 60 to 70 people were believed to be onboard the bus at the time of the crash.
A major incident was declared, with police, fire and ambulance crews all sent to the scene.
Google | The crash occurred on the A396 Cutcombe Hill near MineheadAt around 4.30pm, police confirmed "most" passengers had been taken off the bus, but said fire crews were working to free those who remained onboard.
This included an off-duty firefighter who was travelling behind the vehicle when it crashed and stopped to help free passengers.
The trust which runs Minehead Middle School said it is working closely with the emergency services.
Beacon Education Multi-Academy Trust stated: “We are working closely with the emergency services and relevant authorities following an incident this afternoon to support our pupils, families, and staff at this very difficult time.
“We will update our school community further as soon as more information becomes available, and we kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we manage this evolving situation with care and sensitivity.”