1:53pm Wednesday 15th August 2012
By Will Frampton
Nine people have been injured after a coach carrying an American rock band fell 30ft off a viaduct on Brassknocker Hill, just north of Limpley Stoke, at around 11.30am this morning.
Two of the nine people aboard were trapped in the crash and had to be freed by firefighters using hydraulic cutting equipment.
The Great Western Ambulance Service said both sustained serious injuries including multiple fractures.
One, the driver, also suffered chest injuries and was taken to Frenchay Hospital. The eight passengers went to the Royal United Hospital in Bath.
The group, Baroness, from Savannah, Georgia, had played at The Fleece in Bristol on Tuesday evening and were en route to a gig in Southampton, which has now been cancelled.
A police spokesman said the coach left the road just before the Limpley Stoke Bridge and went down an embankment.
“Nine people were on board, including the driver, and all have been accounted for and taken to hospital," she said.
“Roads remain closed in the area to allow investigations to take place and motorists are asked to remain patient, as this may have an impact on traffic in and around the area.
“It is hoped the road could open later this afternoon.”
The incident was attended by six ambulances, two paramedics in rapid response vehicles, a hazardous area response team, Wiltshire Air Ambulance and staff from Great Western Air Ambulance in
response vehicles, as the weather was too severe for the aircraft to fly.
Avon and Somerset Police are appealing for witnesses to contact them on 101.
© Copyright 2001-2013 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/trade_directory/