CHILDREN on a coach that crashed are to be treated to a free day out thanks to the generosity of Weston businesses.

A total of 53 adults and children were onboard when the coach crashed on the M5 in Gloucestershire on August 19.

The trip had been chartered from Birmingham for the Action For Children charity and luckily no-one was seriously injured when the coach overturned near junction 13.

With the trip ruined, Plum Communications & PR contacted the Mercury 48 hours later asking for help attracting support from businesses to ensure the families affected still got a day out.

Karen Morledge, director of Plum, said she felt compelled to help the charity which supports vulnerable, disadvantaged and neglected children.

She said: “As soon as I heard about the accident I wanted to do something to try to help.

“I was confident the business community of Weston would back the idea, but I’ve been astounded by the kindness people have shown towards the idea. We’ve been overwhelmed by offers and are in a position to offer a day filled with fun-packed activities to Action For Children, including free entry to the SeaQuarium, the Sand Sculpture Exhibition, the Weston Wheel and the museum.

“In addition, rides will be freely available on the land train, a hovercraft and donkeys.

“Of course, traditional seaside fish and chips and ice-creams will also be provided.

“This serves as a wonderful reminder of the great and varied attractions Weston has to offer, and the enthusiasm from our business community just highlights what a fantastic place we live and work in.”

The initiative has won praise from Mayor Roz Willis and North Somerset Council.

Jan Stoll, operational director of children’s services at Action For Children, said: “Everyone at the charity would like to offer their heartfelt thanks to all the organisations and businesses that have offered support.”