Southern Vectis says it is awaiting an update on the passengers who were on board a bus that left the road at Merstone yesterday evening and crashed into a field.

The Isle of Wight Ambulance Service has confirmed that eleven people were taken to hospital and three were treated at St Mary's urgent treatment centre.

Eight people were admitted to A and E and most were later discharged.

Two people remain in hospital and their injuries are described 'non critical.'

A double decker bus stayed upright in the incident, but Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service crews used cutting gear to free two people.

UPDATE: Arreton bus crash investigation as two remain in hospital

Firefighters, coastguard and ambulance teams and police officers were all called to the sharp bend, on the main road between Arreton and Blackwater, at East Lane and Merstone Lane.

In a statement today (Thursday), Southern Vectis's general manager, Richard Tyldsley, said: "Several passengers sustained injuries and were taken to hospital.

"We are awaiting an update on their progress and wish them a full and speedy recovery.

"The safety of our passengers and drivers is our highest priority and our team began an immediate investigation, to establish the circumstances behind this incident." 

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The bus has since been removed from the field and the operator says it has ruled out a mechanical fault.

Mr Tyldsley said: "It is too early to report the exact cause but we are assisting police as they carry out their enquiries, and will provide a further update as soon as we are able to."