Joanne Clague, NWAS Area Director for Cheshire and Merseyside said: “Firstly, I would like to pass on our condolences to all those involved in this incident.

“Following reports of a crash involving a coach this morning, we declared a major incident. This was due to the potential number of casualties involved. As a result, we sent a substantial number of ambulances, senior clinicians and our Hazardous Area Response Teams. A critical care doctor was also dispatched to the scene.

“Tragically, we can confirm that there were two fatalities as a result of the crash. Two patients were taken to Alder Hey with serious injuries. In addition, we have also taken a number of patients to surrounding hospitals to be treated for minor injuries.

“Approximately 50 children were transported to a casualty clearing centre at the Emergency Service Training Centre in Wallasey. Assessments have taken place by our clinicians there, and 39 patients have been discharged, with the rest taken or referred to local hospitals for treatment for minor injuries.

“I would like to thank our emergency service colleagues for their support in ensuring the scene was safe so we were able to identify the most seriously injured first whilst safeguarding all those involved in the incident.

“Again, I would like to express my sincere condolences to the families and friends of those affected.”

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