Coach crash injures 28 people

Twenty-eight people were taken to hospital after a coach crash on the M4 in Wiltshire.

The accident, near the Swindon junction of the eastbound carriageway, happened when a National Express coach collided with a lorry at 1950 GMT on Monday.

The coach driver, a 42-year-old from Bristol, was trapped by his legs and had to be freed by firefighters.

Twenty-six people were discharged from hospital after treatment. Two others were kept in overnight.

Police said the injuries ranged from whiplash, cuts and bruises and shock to serious leg injuries.

Witness appeal

The driver of the articulated lorry was shocked but unhurt.

Following police warnings, the hospital had put its Major Incident Plan into operation and extra staff were called in to help.

Lanes one and two of the motorway were closed temporarily following the crash near the Membury Services, but traffic is now running smoothly in the area.

Denis Wormwell, National Express chief executive, said: "Thankfully the passengers who are National Express's first priority were all released from hospital last night and have been taken by taxi to their chosen destination.

"Unfortunately the driver remains in hospital and is being treated for his injuries."

Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact Wiltshire Police.