AN investigation was launched last night after five people needed to be taken to hospital when a fire engine on an emergency call was involved in a collision with a coach full of youngsters.
AN investigation was launched last night after five people needed to be taken to hospital when a fire engine on an emergency call was involved in a collision with a coach full of youngsters.
The accident happened when the Clacton fire engine negotiated a red light at a junction in Carnarvon Road in the town as it headed to a grass fire.
The 52-seat bus was full of youngsters and their carers from community centres on a day out from East London when the accident happened at about 4.20pm yesterday .
No one was seriously injured but the driver was left with cuts to his face and was taken to Clacton District Hospital.
Two of the youngsters were taken to hospital and a pregnant woman was also admitted as a precaution.
Sergeant Dave Cook, of Stanway traffic police, said it had been a low-speed crash with the rear side of the fire engine in collision with the front of the bus.
Essex Police and the county's fire service will now be investigating the cause of the accident.
Alan Whitehead, of the East of England Ambulance Service, said: “A 36-year-old woman suffered a back injury and was immobilised using a neck collar and spinal board.
“She was taken to Colchester General Hospital along with a teenage girl with a less serious back injury and a young boy of about eight who was feeling dizzy and suffering from shock.
“The driver had minor cuts to his face. He was taken to Clacton and District Hospital for treatment. A pregnant woman was also taken there as a precaution.
“The other passengers were also checked over but did not require any further treatment.
“The crew of the fire appliance were all uninjured, though the driver showed signs of mild shock and was taken home.
“There is no doubt that this could have been a far more serious incident. The potential for many more serious injuries was high.”
Last night Essex Fire and Rescue Service said: “The firefighters remained at the scene to render first aid and make the vehicles safe.
“A second appliance was mobilised to deal with the grass fire.
“Essex Fire Service would like to extend their sympathies to all those involved in this accident.
“A full investigation into the accident will be carried out by the police and the fire service.”
james.hore@eadt.co.uk
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