Two people dead and one hospitalised after crash on A303 near Buckland St Mary

The crash, involving a car and a van, happened near Buckland St Mary shortly after 1pm. 

A van which was travelling in a north easterly direction had just negotiated at sweeping right hand bend when it appears to have crossed the centre of the road and was in collision with a car travelling in the opposite direction, according to Avon and Somerset Police.

The occupants of the car – a man and a woman in their 70s – were both seriously injured and sadly died at the scene shortly afterwards.

The van driver suffered facial injuries and was taken to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, where he was released after receiving treatment.

The road was closed until around 10pm last night in both directions between the A30 junction at Upottery and the Eagle Tavern at Buckland St Mary as collision investigators carried out investigations. 

Police have now been on the scene for more than six hours

Speaking at the scene, a police officer said: "We have a serious road traffic collision involving a car and a van.

"We have two deceased and one injured, who has been taken to hospital for treatment."

Police pictured at the scene earlier this afternoon

Three air ambulances were sent to crash along with a few rapid response vehicles and ambulances, South Western Ambulance Service said. 

A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: "We were called to reports of a serious road traffic collision between a car and a van on the A303 westbound at Buckland St Mary near Chard.

"The incident happened shortly before 1pm and the road is closed in both directions.

"The fire service and ambulance service are also attending.

"We are advising motorists to find an alternative route."

Collision investigators are keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident who may have information to help our enquiries.

Anyone able to help is asked to contact the collision investigation unit on 101, quoting reference CI/222/16.