UPDATED: The A3055 Blackgang Road has been closed this evening due to a road traffic collision involving a minibus with children on board.
Police and paramedics are currently on the scene near to Niton Barns on the main stretch between Niton village and Blackgang Chine.
The incident, which occurred just before 17:00, has involved a Minibus Plus-owned Ford Transit and a Silver Ford Fiesta driven by an elderly woman.
Island Echo understand a number of children were on board the minibus at the time of the incident, however thankfully none have been injured and all have been taken to a nearby property to keep warm and dry.
No persons have been trapped in the front end crash, however paramedics are treating the drivers for shock.
The Isle of Wight Ambulance Service dispatched one ambulance and two rapid response vehicles to the scene.
UPDATE: The drivers of both vehicles were taken to St Mary’s Hospital by ambulance however are not though to have suffered any serious injuries.
The road reopened shortly after 18:30.
UPDATE THURSDAY: The driver of the Ford Fiesta remains in hospital today after being admitted yesterday evening. The minibus driver has been discharged.
UPDATE FRIDAY: A spokesperson for Minibus Plus has today said:
“At the time [of the incident] the school bus was heading into Niton. There were four of our pupils on the bus.
“A car driver from Niton crossed from its lane and collided with the bus at a bend where it appears, from local residents, accidents are not unknown.
“The four children on the school bus were all wearing safety belts, and the bus airbags functioned fully. The children sustained no serious injury we understand. All children are now safe and at home. Care is being taken in case there are any after-effects.
“Our driver Kevin was taken to hospital with shock and bruises but discharged later. The lady driver we understand sustained no serious injury we believe but was also admitted to hospital for examination.
“Local residents were extraordinarily kind and took the children into their house from where they called their parents. The residents also cared for the drivers until the emergency services arrived.
“It appears there are accidents on this stretch of road – the cause may have been the glare of the strong setting sun in the window of the oncoming car at a concealed bend.
“Our bus was being driven safely, within the speed limit and within its lane. “
Photo: Shane Thornton
