Two killed in coach crash near Heathrow
Two people have died and dozens have been injured after a National Express coach overturned near Heathrow Airport.
Two children were among those hurt, and an ambulance service spokesperson said several people had limbs amputated as a result of their injuries.
Thames Valley Police say one woman and one man have been confirmed dead after suffering serious injuries in the crash.
A further nine people have been seriously injured after the coach travelling from London to Aberdeen overturned at 11.45pm last night on the slip road leading from junction 4B of the M4 east bound to the M25 junction 15 clockwise.
Sixteen of the casualties were transferred to Charing Cross hospital in Fulham, a hospital spokesman said.
Of those, 10 are men and six female, all adults.
One has now been transferred to another hospital, and three are “giving doctors cause for concern”, the spokesman said.
The others are expected to be discharged this morning.
A total of 20 ambulances, five fire engines, a fire brigade specialist rescue unit and eight doctors attended the scene.
There were 65 people on board the coach and David Wright, of Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue, said firefighters used cutting equipment to free 36 people.
A total of 21 people were taken away from the scene on stretchers.
The slip road leading to the M25 at junction 15 has been closed overnight while emergency services work at the scene and police this morning advised motorists to avoid the scene.
Thames Valley Police said recovery of the overturned coach is underway but the slip road is likely to remain closed for some hours.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible.
Collision investigators and emergency services are continuing their work at the scene to establish the cause of the incident and to ensure the road is cleared as soon as possible.
The coach involved in the incident was the 22.30 National Express service 592 from London Victoria to Aberdeen.
It was due to arrive in Aberdeen at 10.25am this morning after stopping at Heathrow Airport, Carlisle, Hamilton, Glasgow and Dundee.
National Express Chief Executive Paul Bunting said: “Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those involved in last night’s accident.
“We are working closely with the emergency services and our main priority at this time is to ensure all customers are being cared for and information is provided to families and friends.”
