Community Raises Over £15,000 After Heartbreaking School Coach Crash

 

Over £15,000 Donated to Support Victims of School Coach Tragedy.

More than £15,000 has been collected through a fundraiser set up to assist the families affected by a tragic coach accident that claimed the life of a 10-year-old boy.

The incident occurred as a school group was returning from a trip to Exmoor Zoo, leaving the Minehead, Somerset, community heartbroken.

Six children remain under medical care—two at Bristol Children’s Hospital and four in Somerset. In addition, three adults are still being treated for their injuries.

The fundraising campaign was started on Friday by Bobbie Rammond, a local resident and small business owner from West Somerset.

“This heartbreaking event has had a profound effect on our community. Like many others, I felt compelled to do something meaningful,” he said.

Around 3:00 PM BST on Thursday, a coach carrying approximately 70 passengers overturned at Cutcombe Hill near Wheddon Cross, causing the crash. It slid down an embankment after flipping onto its roof.

Most passengers were students from Minehead Middle School, which remained closed the following day out of respect and mourning.

A line of floral tributes now decorates the entrance to the school, with heartfelt notes left by classmates, families, and community members.

Mr. Rammond explained that the fundraiser’s purpose is to offer direct support to those most affected by the incident.

“I know this is a very delicate time, and while we’re still understanding the full scope of needs, I promise that the funds will go to those who truly require help,” he added.

As a father of two young children himself, Mr. Rammond expressed his deep sympathy for those facing the unimaginable loss and trauma caused by the crash.

The donations, he said, will help cover immediate medical needs, support for injured individuals, and ongoing mental health services, even for those not physically hurt but emotionally impacted.

A touching message left with a bouquet of flowers read:

“From all of us at Young Somerset — our thoughts are with the students, families, and teachers. We stand together as a community.”

Local authorities, including Avon and Somerset Police, declared the incident a significant emergency. The road remains closed, with recovery efforts and investigations continuing the following week due to the severity of the situation.

Throughout the day on Friday, numerous people came to the school gates to leave tributes, offer support to one another, and quietly reflect—many visibly emotional as the town mourned together.