DOZENS of schoolchildren had to be rescued from a coach after it became stranded.

The EV12 bus heading towards Prince Henry's High School, Evesham, was driving over the Eckington Bridge, which is on the Pershore Road between Eckington and Defford, when it came of the road and was unable to escape.

Two fire engines and a Land Rover from Malvern as well as boat crews from Worcester and Evesham had to rescue the students from the stranded coach.

A spokesperson for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: "57 schoolchildren and one adult were rescued from the vehicle and continued their journey to school on a replacement coach."

Dr Evans, headteacher of Prince Henry's High School, said: "This morning, the police have made us aware that there was an accident involving the EV12 bus at Eckington Bridge, with 57 of our students on board.

"At the current time our understanding is that the bus had left the road and ended up in a ditch with flood water around it.

"The fire service and police have been attending the scene, supporting the students."

The fire service had to rescue someone after their car become trapped in the water overnight.

A spokesperson said: " Two fire crews  from Worcester and Upton-upon-Severn Fire Stations, including the Upton water first responders – plus the boat from Evesham were called at 05:45 on 25 November to a vehicle in water at Eckington Bridge, Pershore.

"A man was rescued from his vehicle using the water first responders’ raft. Eckington Road was closed by fire service personnel on the Eckington side.

"The incident was marked as pending closure at 07:13."

Eckington Road was closed by Worcestershire County Council at 7.10am. 

It is not currently known whether the incident took place before or after the closure.

Dr Evans added: "We have been informed by the police officer in charge at the scene that none of the students are injured, nobody requires first aid and they are safe and well.

"The police have asked that parents or carers do not go to the scene, as this is impeding the recovery operation."