School bus driver and driver of car hospitalised after serious collision - school children hurt too

The collission involved a car and a school bus and it occurred on Downpatrick Road, Clough, county Down shortly before 8.40am.

The male driver of the car and a male passenger have both been taken to hospital.

The school bus driver was also taken to hospital.

The Northern Ireland air ambulance was scrambled to the scene.

The PSNI confirmed 12 school children were on board the bus at the time of the collision.

Two pupils were treated at the scene by paramedics and a third pupil was taken from the scene to hospital for treatment.

“We believe, at this time, the injuries of the pupils’ on board the bus are non-life threatening,” said a spokesperson for the PSNI.

“Our officers remain at the scene on Downpatrick Road, which is closed, and which will remain closed for some time as we deal with the collision.

“We would ask that drivers avoid the area and use an alternative route.

“We will bring you more information as soon as we are able tO,” the spokesperson added.

Local UUP councillor, Alan Lewis, praised local people who went to the aid of those injured in the collision.

“I’d like to thank local people who were first on the scene, the emergency services who were quick to respond, particularly the Northern Ireland air ambulance.”

Colr. Lewis added: “I thank the air ambulance team for their continued commitment and dedication to urgent response care within our community, an absolutely vital resource particularly at this time of deep uncertainty.

“My thoughts are with all those injured in this mornings incident, I hope and pray they make a full recovery, the entire community send their best wishes to all involved.”