THREE children have been left “seriously injured” after falling from the top deck of a school bus.
Emergency services responded with the air ambulance seen landing nearby following the incident in Ashton-in-Makerfield in Greater Manchester yesterday.
Police said three high school pupils fell “through a window on the top deck of a school bus” on Bolton Road.
Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening but have been described as “potentially serious” by the force.
An enquiry is now underway, however a senior officer said it appeared at this stage to be “an unfortunate accident”.
Inspector Simon Barrie, from Greater Manchester Police’s Wigan District, said: “This is a serious incident that will cause disruption, our priority is to make sure the children get the treatment they need in hospital.
“Thankfully, we don’t believe their injuries are life-threatening.
“This does appear to be an unfortunate accident at this time but we will be making enquiries as to the circumstances and liaising with partners.”
GMP added in a statement: “The investigation is in its early stages and work is underway to determine the full circumstances of this incident.”
Bolton Road was blocked off and there was congestion around the junction with Golborne Road as emergency services dealt with the aftermath of the incident.
GMP said the road had now reopened after officers had carried out initial enquiries.
Ashton-in-Makerfield South Ward Councillor Danny Fletcher said: “I’ve spoken with our policing team this afternoon.
“As we know, three young people have fallen from a top floor side window of a school bus and have been taken to Manchester Children’s Hospital, some with potentially life changing injuries.
“The road has now reopened after investigations have taken place.
“I’ve contacted the schools involved to ensure they have council support if needed. Sending my thoughts and all my love to the kids and families involved.”
A TfGM spokesperson said: “At around 3.50pm this afternoon we received reports of an incident involving a school bus service on Bolton Road, Ashton-in-Makerfield.
“We understand that three children onboard have since been taken to hospital. Our thoughts are with those injured and we want to wish them a speedy recovery.
“Emergency services remain at the scene, and we are working closely with the bus operator in supporting police with their enquiries into the incident.”
Have you been affected by this incident? Email ryan.merrifield@thesun.co.uk
