Closure on M53 after coach overturns
The motorway is shut between J5 (Hooton) and J4 (Bebington) due to the overturned coach.
The incident occurred shortly after 8am this morning, Friday.
Emergency services are on scene along with North West Air Ambulance Services.
Merseyside Fire & Rescue service have confirmed there are a 'number of casualties'
A spokesperson for Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service said: "Fire crews have been called to the scene of a road traffic collision between junctions 5 and 4 of the M53 on the northbound carriageway this morning.
"Two fire engines and the Search and Rescue Team are in attendance. Crews were alerted at 8.05am and on scene at 8.16am. Crews arrived at the scene to find an overturned bus with a number of casualties.
"North West Ambulance and Merseyside Police are also in attendance. The incident is ongoing and the carriageway will remain closed for some time."
A spokesman for Merseyside Police added: "We can confirm that emergency services are on the M53 in Hooton following a collision involving a bus on the motorway. "Just after 8am we received a report that a bus had struck a reservation on Junction 5 of the M53. "Junctions 3-5 of the M53 are closed in both directions. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service is currently ensuring the safe removal of passengers and the driver, and North West Ambulance Service are at the scene attending to anyone requiring treatment. "Motorists are advised to avoid the area and find alternative routes, and we advise people to remain patient while the incident is ongoing.
"Enquiries are ongoing and updates will be issued as soon as possible. "Please note this incident is ongoing and we are urging people to refrain from speculating or publishing any sensitive information that could be distressing online or via social media platforms. "
Due to a road traffic accident at junction 5 Northbound of the M53, we advise the public to avoid this area due to significant delays. Thank you for your patience whilst we deal with the incident and we will provide updates when available.
— Merseyside Police Contact Centre (@MerPolCC) September 29, 2023[1]According to reports on social media 'lots of people' are hurt.
Calday Grange Grammar school has confirmed that the overturned bus was carrying their students.
More to follow.
References
- ^ September 29, 2023 (twitter.com)