Schoolchildren hurt as bus hits roundabout

Twelve schoolchildren were taken to hospital today after their coach ended up on a roundabout as they headed on a seaside day-trip.

The accident happened on the A20 in Kent at 9.45am as the vehicle was carrying 41 children and eight adult passengers from Guston Church of England Primary School in Dover to Folkestone.

The children, from Years 2 and 3, were checked over by medical staff at the scene, their headteacher Deby Allen said.

Eight pupils were taken to the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford and four went to the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate to have minor injuries treated.

Ms Allen said: "The other children returned to the school. I arranged for families to be contacted about what happened.

"I would like to praise all the children for behaving in a calm and responsible way in these most unusual circumstances."

Paramedics from South East Coast Ambulance Service attended the scene, off junction 13 of the M20, and assessed and treated those injured, Kent Police said.

Chief Inspector Geoff Wood said: "We do not believe there are any serious injuries; however, precautionary measures are being taken.

"Where appropriate those injured will be taken to hospital to be treated or for further assessment.

"Once we have ensured the safety of all those involved, we will then begin an investigation as to how this incident has occurred."