Police, fire and ambulance crews are attending a serious road traffic collision at Arreton this evening (Wednesday).
Island Echo is told that the crash, which occurred around 18:00, involves a bus that has left the carriageway and has gone into a field.
The incident has occurred near the junction with Merstone Lane and East Lane, on the sharp left hand bend.
Several fire appliances from across the Island are on scene alongside large numbers of Police and ambulance crews. HM Coastguard has also been mobilised to assist blue light colleagues.
The main Blackwater Road has been closed in both directions and is likely to remain closed for several hours. The road is closed between Blackwater Hollow and Arreton Cross.
UPDATE @ 19:55 – It has been confirmed that 1 vehicle – a double decker Southern Vectis bus – has been involved in the incident.
UPDATE @ 21:13 – Richard Tyldsley, Southern Vectis’ general manager, has said:
“I can confirm one of our vehicles was involved in an incident today, when the bus left the road near Merstone.
“Latest reports suggest injuries to some of those on board. We wish them a full and speedy recovery, and we will be monitoring their progress closely.
“The safety of our passengers and drivers is our highest priority, and our team is carrying out an immediate investigation to establish the cause of this incident.”
UPDATE @ 21:45 – More than 13 casualties have been tended to at the scene, according to Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.
Read more at https://www.islandecho.co.uk/13-casualties-treated-as-bus-crashes-off-road-into-field/.
I hope that there are no serious injuries and the people that were involved are all safe and well
Praying everyone is safe and uninjured
Is there any road diversions to get to Rookley
Well done to all the services who attended.