Coach crash probe in Belgium

Belgian police are investigating the crash of a British holiday coach that injured four people.

The coach operated by Leger Holidays, which was on the way back to the UK, had apparently swerved to avoid another vehicle when it struck the house causing serious structural damage to the property.

A company spokesperson said: "At 11.10am local time, and following an overnight rest stop, a Leger Holidays coach was involved in an accident with a vehicle and a house between Middelkirke and Nieuwpoort in Belgium. “Of the 35 passengers involved, three are in hospital – two have cuts and bruises and will be released in the next day or so, whilst a third is expected to remain in hospital for up to a week according to doctors.

“One of our two British drivers onboard will remain in hospital and we are waiting for an update on how he is – the driver at the time of the accident was unhurt.”

Ian Henry, Leger Holidays’ Managing Director, said: "Clearly our thoughts and concerns go to those still in hospital, to their family and friends, and to the passengers who have been shaken by today’s unfortunate accident.

"A full investigation is underway to establish the cause and investigators are working with local officials as we speak. We were able to get a team of three Leger staff to the scene soon after, and another nine were mobilised from the UK office. "Included in this group is a trained counsellor who will be speaking to our passengers in the hotel where they are currently being looked after.

"Following this, passengers will be taken by replacement coach services back to their homes in the UK tonight and tomorrow. "We have been keeping passengers’ relatives and next of kin fully updated throughout and have been supported by teams from the Red Cross, British Consulate officials as well as the British Ambassador in Belgium."

(SP/JM)