Several schoolchildren were hurt after a serious crash involving a bus and a tractor.

It happened on the A227 South Street in Meopham, near Culverstone Green, at around 3.25pm.

Police officers, paramedics and the air ambulance were all called to the scene where 12 people – including five youngsters – were injured. One person was flown to King’s College Hospital.

A helicopter from Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance arrived on the scene at 4.00pm.

The road was closed for several hours while emergency teams worked at the scene but has since reopened.

The force is now appealing for anyone with dashcam footage or video from the incident to come forward.

A spokesman said: “Police attended the scene, which was close to the junction for Chapman’s Hill, along with paramedics, an air ambulance and Kent Fire and Rescue Service.

“Several passengers on the bus, including children, were injured and are receiving treatment at hospital.

“The incident is being investigated by Kent Police’s Serious Collision Unit (SCIU) and officers are appealing to any witnesses to contact them.

“This includes those who may have footage on their phones and motorists with potential evidence on dashcams.”

Pictures show more than a dozen emergency service vehicles lining the streets.

An ambulance spokesman urged people to only call 999 if there was an emergency as there were several resources at the scene of the crash.

They said: “I can confirm we responded to a serious RTC in South Street, Meopham, reported to us shortly after 3.30pm today. We have multiple resources at the scene assessing a number of casualties.”

They then transported the patient to a major trauma centre by air.”

An email from Meopham School sent to parents said: “We are aware of the serious incident in the community this evening which will have been distressing for anyone who witnessed it or was involved.

“Please check traffic reports in the morning as there may be implications for travelling to school with the A227 remaining closed and ensure that more time is allocated for any journey.

“As mentioned, we do appreciate this will have been distressing for our students and if your child feels unsettled then please direct them to members of staff who will be able to provide support.”

Anyone who may be able to assist the investigation should call SCIU on 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.police.uk quoting reference EX/DGC/051/24. Any video footage can be uploaded via our online portal here.

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