TAUNTON M5 CRASH: Investigation could take weeks

9:00pm Monday 7th November 2011 in News

The scene on Sunday morning. The scene on Sunday morning.

UPDATE 9pm Monday.THE Transport secretary has told Parliament the inquiry into the cause of Friday's M5 tragedy could take weeks.

In a statement to the House of Commons this afternoon, Justine Greening said: "Given the large number of vehicles involved, the need to carefully look at those vehicles recovered and to talk to many of the witnesses, it may be some weeks until the investigation can conclude on any cause or causes of this incident."

UPDATE 8am Monday. RUSH hour traffic is flowing freely along the M5 past Taunton this morning, where emergency services have worked amid scenes of horror and tragedy over the weekend.

This morning, West Somerset Coroner Michael Rose, is expected to release details of when inquests will be opened and adjourned into the seven deaths that occurred at about 8.30pm on Friday night.

This website will continue to be updated throughout the week as developments unfold.

UPDATE 10.30pm Sunday. Both carriageways - northbound and southbound - have now been reopened following Friday's crash.

UPDATE 6.40pm Sunday. A SPOKESMAN for Taunton Rugby Club has given his response to the ongoing investigation into the M5 crash at Taunton.

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On the night, the club had hosted a fireworks display, with no bonfire.

Colin Bentley, of the club’s promotions and marketing team, tonight told the County Gazette: “Everybody at the club is incredibly upset at the terrible loss of life in the tragedy on the M5 – no one could fail to be moved by it. My heart, soul and prayers go out to those affected.

“The club is supporting the police in their enquiries.

“I don’t believe the club has done anything improper.

“Checks and risk assessments were done.

“I am absolutely positive it finished at 8.15pm – I was timing it and it went dark.

“I later called 999 when I saw a fire – I looked across the field and there was no black smoke that I could see.”

UPDATE 5.30pm Sunday. Two Lanes of the southbound carriagway of the M5 between Bridgwater have been reopened following Friday night's accident. Four of those injured, who were taken to Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton, have been released.

UPDATE 2.30pm Sunday AVON and Somerset Police Assistant Chief Constable Anthony Bangham has said that smoke is the main feature of the M5 crash inquiry rather than fog.

Mr Bangham also said that the police are speaking to witnesses and hope to hand over the carriageway to the Highways Agency by the end of the day.

Speaking at a press conference shortly after 2pm, Mr Bangham added: “We have recovered all of the deceased personnel and are working very meticulously on the site.

“Witnesses have said there was very significant smoke which in effect caused a bank, similar to a fog bank, that was very distracting and very difficult to drive through.

“We are interviewing witnesses at the firework display and it will be a factor of the investigation. We believe smoke was a factor and not fog.”

“From witness statements it was impossible to drive through and caused people to brake.

"This incident caused a significant amount of damage to the highway; a stretch of 40 metres of road was damaged by fuel spillage from vehicles and a stretch of 60 metres was damaged by intense fire.

“We are as clear as we can be with the figure of seven lives lost, we will be working through the debris and anticipate that this figure will not go up but you can never be certain.

“We will do a final sweep on the area before we hand over the carriageway to the Highways Agency.”

“We are expecting to work for two to three hours on the carriageway and the Highways Agency have said it will take several hours to repair the road.”

There are all reports that several motorists insist it was 'white fog' and not the 'back smoke' being investigated by the police.

The police are urging anybody with video footage of the incident to come forward and everybody will be contacted.

The Highways Agency hope to have the southbound carriageway by 5pm and both directions of the motorway open by tomorrow (Monday) morning.

If you have footage of the crash or photos, send them to newsdesk@countygazette.co.uk or call 01823-365101.

UPDATE 8.30am Sunday POLICE have this morning confirmed that the total number of people killed in the Taunton M5 crash is seven.

The operation to recover the stricken vehicles has been completed.

Yesterday, it was feared the death toll would rise as the recovery work continued.

Incident commander Assistant Chief Constable Anthony Bangham said: "Overnight all the vehicles involved in this tragic incident have been removed the scene. Our worst fears have NOT been realised and the number of those that sadly lost their lives remains at seven.

"Extensive work has been carried out to identify those people and families are being appointed family liaison officers to support them. Formal identification has not taken place, this will happen in the coming days.

"We are now working with our partners to carry out the required work on the carriageway and open the road as soon as it is safe to do so. We thank everyone for their support and patience and this extremely difficult time."

A police spokesman added: “The M5 between junction 24 and 25 remains closed this morning. Motorists are asked to avoid the area if possible and delay any unnecessary journeys.

“If you do need to travel please leave plenty of time for your journey as diversions are in place and the road network is heavily congested.

The emergency services appreciate the impact the closure of the motorway has on the travel plans of motorists.”

Updates will be posted here as they become available.

UPDATE 6.30pm Saturday POLICE are asking for patience as they continue to investigate the crash on the M5 at Taunton that has killed at least seven people.

This evening a police statement said: "The M5 remains closed in both directions between junctions 24 and 25.

"Motorists are asked to avoid the area if possible and delay any unnecessary journeys.

"If you do need to travel please leave plenty of time for your journey as diversions are in place and the road network is heavily congested.

"The emergency services appreciate the impact the closure of the motorway has on the travel plans of motorists.

"The closure is necessary to allow emergency services to clear the road and complete a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.

"We are working with the Highways Agency to re-open the roads as soon as possible and a further update will be provided tomorrow morning.

SEVERAL people have died in a crash involving up to 27 vehicles on the M5.

The incident took place at about 8.30pm near the northbound entry sliproad at junction 25 for Taunton.

Four lorries were involved in the incident, one of which, a lorry carrying food, was severely damaged by fire.

This morning, the number of people thought to be injured has been raised to more than 40 while unconfirmed reports last night suggested as many as 12 people were feared dead.

A stretch of motorway from junctions 23 to 26 was closed last night in both directions. This morning, the route is closed between junctions 24 (Bridgwater) and 25 (Taunton). Traffic flow on the A358 through junction 25 continues.

Late last night, police turned round about seven miles of traffic that was stuck on the southbound carriageway. At 2.30am that process was nearing completion.

Last night, Assistant Chief Constable Anthony Bangham said: "Undoubtedly this is a tragic incident. All emergency services are at the scene and are working tirelessly to attend to those who are injured or who are trapped in vehicles.

"We have now launched an emergency number members of the public can call if you genuinely fear for the welfare of a friend or loved one and you fear they may be injured.

"Before you call this number please make all attempts to contact them via mobile phones or via friends, family or by any other usual measures.

"If this fails and you still remain concerned please call 0800 092 0410."

This morning, a spokesman for Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton said they were treating 16 casualties for a range of trauma injuries.

Jo Cubbon, Chief Executive said, “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy. “I would like to pay tribute to the staff at Musgrove and all our emergency services partners who have responded with the utmost professionalism in these difficult circumstances.”

James, from Bridgwater, who had been stuck in the tailbacks for six hours at 2am yesterday (Saturday) morning said: "Everybody is in the same position but it would be nice to be told what is going on.

"It looks like it is going to be a big wait but we just want to be kept updated."

Taunton Deane MP Jeremy Browne praised the work of the emergency services in what he described as a 'horrific'incident.

He added: "Everyone is shocked by watching the scenes unfold after the horrific M5 crash.

"My thoughts are with the people injured and killed and their families.

"I pay tribute to the bravery and professionalism of the fantastic Somerset emergency services who have dealt with this horrendous accident.

"There has not been a crash on this scale for many years and the implications of it will be life changing for many people.

"The whole Taunton Deane community will feel traumatised by this appauling devastation in our area.”

Dr Colin Close, of Musgrove Park Hospital said: "We have staff on-call and were able to call-in nurses and surgeons.

"Sixteen people have been treated at the hospital and everybody is in a stable condition despite suffering a wide range of injuries."

Assistant Chief Constable Anthony Bangham confirmed that both the northbound and southband carriageways will remain shut until tomorrow (Sunday).

Were you at the scene? Send your photos or videos to newsdesk@countygazette.co.uk or call 01823-365101.

Comments(147)

Mr Pedant says...
10:42pm Fri 4 Nov 11

Just heard on TV that the motorway could be closed for 24 hours between junctions 23 and 25!

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feeby12007 says...
10:43pm Fri 4 Nov 11

I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.

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scally666 says...
10:45pm Fri 4 Nov 11

hoping ppl are ok
also this must mean petherton carnival wont go ahead????

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sooty54 says...
10:46pm Fri 4 Nov 11

Praying for the injured, the dead and their families. Dreadful.

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katalina21 says...
10:54pm Fri 4 Nov 11

Thinking of all the families involved at this time. Awful.

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katalina21 says...
10:54pm Fri 4 Nov 11

Thinking of all the families involved at this time. Awful.

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LadyHawke says...
10:59pm Fri 4 Nov 11

I drove past that very part of the M5 at 7.05pm this evening, getting on at Junction 27 and travelling North. The road seemed busy but tolerable in the dark, and although I expected lots of wet areas, it almost seemed totally dry at that point, no puddles laying about. There was fog at Junction 27 enough to warrant fog lights, but I had actually turned them off before I got to Junction 25 so I can only think that the fog came down very suddenly there for some reason. There were some stupid drivers - one overtaking me in his/her 4x4 doing at least 95+ and tailgating anyone in the way. And yes I do know the vehicle registration, but they would have been long gone. It is sad to hear this news, and I can only thank my lucky starts I never stayed longer on my visit than I had planned, or I would have been in all of that. Don't judge everyone - we don't all drink and drive/drive like maniacs with no understanding of the power or capability of our cars. And if the fog did come down that quickly, its easier to understand that some people may not have had the confidence to deal with it and in slowing down, maybe others didn't judge it the same way, it was dark, no lights on that bit of the M5 either.

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*fairy* says...
11:13pm Fri 4 Nov 11

feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village?
my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!

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Mark1970 says...
11:16pm Fri 4 Nov 11

I am not a religious man, but even I said a pray tonight. Was driving towards Creech St Michael tonight, and the road was thick with fog and was literally crawling, drove over the bridge and looked at the M5 and saw all the tail backs, and thought that it was just that, until I saw on my iPhone regarding the accident.

Such a tragic accident with Christmas fast approaching.

The emergency services were up and down East Reach all night, they deserve so much praise.

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somerset1982 says...
11:24pm Fri 4 Nov 11

I was going passed the accident 5 minutes after it happended and i am still in shock now, i never in my life want to see anything like that again. My heart goes out to all the peoples families that are involved. I am just thankful that myself and my daughter were going in the opposite direction as i could not imagine wanting to be in the accident.

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Loociiee says...
11:56pm Fri 4 Nov 11

I don't live in the Wellington area permanently anymore, only when I return from uni, but I have never heard of an accident this extreme on the motorway before. I hope the casualties are not too numerous and I send love and my thoughts to the families of those involved. If only more people were careful and considerate on the roads and took caution in the case of fog; more people would not have such accidents.

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souwesterly says...
12:22am Sat 5 Nov 11

*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village?
my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
Have you ever lived in a village - a nice quiet peaceful village.....and suddenly all those delayed, lost and frustrated idiots are using your main road as a substitute motorway because their raceway has been closed. Not nice - and just as likely to cause accidents too.
*
And the worst thing is that once they find their way through your lovely village - they'll do it again and again.
*
Granted that we will all spare thoughts for those involved in tonight's crash but these longer-term side-effects need considering too.

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jayjay.c says...
12:28am Sat 5 Nov 11

feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
how pathetic and selfish can you possibly be. there are people who are going to be devastated by this tragic accident. people who will be about to get the worst possible news they could have that a member of their family has lost their life and all you are bothered about is the traffic through your village. you should be ashamed of your comment cause i am disgusted by its heartlessness. my thoughts, heart and prays go to all those it involves and to the services and people who are working hard to help people suffering in this tragedy, true heros!! xx

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jayjay.c says...
12:29am Sat 5 Nov 11

feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
how pathetic and selfish can you possibly be. there are people who are going to be devastated by this tragic accident. people who will be about to get the worst possible news they could have that a member of their family has lost their life and all you are bothered about is the traffic through your village. you should be ashamed of your comment cause i am disgusted by its heartlessness. my thoughts, heart and prays go to all those it involves and to the services and people who are working hard to help people suffering in this tragedy, true heros!! xx

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*fairy* says...
12:36am Sat 5 Nov 11

yes Feeby i was brought up in a lovely quiet peaceful village and it was full of selfish numb-skulls who would of said the same thing as you did, glad to be out of there and living amongst the real people! Such a huge tragedy and your concern in the traffic...shocking!

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H Varsani says...
12:38am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly wrote:
*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote: I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village? my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
Have you ever lived in a village - a nice quiet peaceful village.....and suddenly all those delayed, lost and frustrated idiots are using your main road as a substitute motorway because their raceway has been closed. Not nice - and just as likely to cause accidents too. * And the worst thing is that once they find their way through your lovely village - they'll do it again and again. * Granted that we will all spare thoughts for those involved in tonight's crash but these longer-term side-effects need considering too.
^Pure selfishness.

Thoughts go out to everyone devasted by this.

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dafearnley2 says...
12:42am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly wrote:
*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village?
my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
Have you ever lived in a village - a nice quiet peaceful village.....and suddenly all those delayed, lost and frustrated idiots are using your main road as a substitute motorway because their raceway has been closed. Not nice - and just as likely to cause accidents too.
*
And the worst thing is that once they find their way through your lovely village - they'll do it again and again.
*
Granted that we will all spare thoughts for those involved in tonight's crash but these longer-term side-effects need considering too.
Yes i do live in a nice quite village

but the comment you made is truly sicking you are a disgusting human being get a grip! people have died people are hurt i pray to god you dont get that chilling knock on the door tonight like many familys will be getting to say there loved ones are dead or hurt you need to get some perspective

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jayjay.c says...
12:45am Sat 5 Nov 11

H Varsani wrote:
souwesterly wrote:
*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote: I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village? my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
Have you ever lived in a village - a nice quiet peaceful village.....and suddenly all those delayed, lost and frustrated idiots are using your main road as a substitute motorway because their raceway has been closed. Not nice - and just as likely to cause accidents too. * And the worst thing is that once they find their way through your lovely village - they'll do it again and again. * Granted that we will all spare thoughts for those involved in tonight's crash but these longer-term side-effects need considering too.
^Pure selfishness. Thoughts go out to everyone devasted by this.
true pure selfishness. people being diverted from this accident have just been caught up in a tragedy seriously people are not going to use your precious village as a raceway. grow up. poor people just want to get home to there families. alright for you souwesterly i expect your already at home with your family and chances are no one you know has been involved in the tragedy. think how it would feel if it was you or your family! look at the bigger picture!!!!!

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jayjay.c says...
12:45am Sat 5 Nov 11

true pure selfishness. people being diverted from this accident have just been caught up in a tragedy seriously people are not going to use your precious village as a raceway. grow up. poor people just want to get home to there families. alright for you souwesterly i expect your already at home with your family and chances are no one you know has been involved in the tragedy. think how it would feel if it was you or your family! look at the bigger picture!!!!!

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jayjay.c says...
12:46am Sat 5 Nov 11

true pure selfishness. people being diverted from this accident have just been caught up in a tragedy seriously people are not going to use your precious village as a raceway. grow up. poor people just want to get home to there families. alright for you souwesterly i expect your already at home with your family and chances are no one you know has been involved in the tragedy. think how it would feel if it was you or your family! look at the bigger picture!!!!!

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BlueEyesGirlie says...
12:49am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly wrote:
*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village?
my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
Have you ever lived in a village - a nice quiet peaceful village.....and suddenly all those delayed, lost and frustrated idiots are using your main road as a substitute motorway because their raceway has been closed. Not nice - and just as likely to cause accidents too.
*
And the worst thing is that once they find their way through your lovely village - they'll do it again and again.
*
Granted that we will all spare thoughts for those involved in tonight's crash but these longer-term side-effects need considering too.
This is such a tradgedy! The poor families that will be affected by this horrific event. I don't know how someone can have a concern for a village road being used to help the situation. Thoughts & prayers go out to all involved.

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simbaspride says...
1:07am Sat 5 Nov 11

the comment about the fog was actually caused by fireworks from the rugby club my sister was passing minutes before the accident and she said it was herrendous all from some poxy fireworks and mixture of fog,about the traffic its a bit insensetive at this time when people are going to be receiving some devastating news which could have been our family. my thoughts go out to all the friends and families at this very sad time i pray you have your guardian angels looking over you to get you home safe or to help u all make a full recovery. very very sad day ****

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crazybanana says...
1:17am Sat 5 Nov 11

and they want to raise the speed limit to 80??????????????? Insane!

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cinderella89 says...
1:25am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly wrote:
*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village?
my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
Have you ever lived in a village - a nice quiet peaceful village.....and suddenly all those delayed, lost and frustrated idiots are using your main road as a substitute motorway because their raceway has been closed. Not nice - and just as likely to cause accidents too.
*
And the worst thing is that once they find their way through your lovely village - they'll do it again and again.
*
Granted that we will all spare thoughts for those involved in tonight's crash but these longer-term side-effects need considering too.
What on earth is wrong with you? You appear to be ridiculous. The "longer-term side-effects" are that there will be people who lost children tonight, and parents, husbands, wives ... everybody is somebody to someone out there ... there are people crying in hospital and worrying that they haven't heard from loved ones ... and THOSE are the long term effects. I am from a village and I can safely say the last thing I am thinking about is the consequences should a car who - thank heavens - avoided this awful crash drove through the area and thought it a pleasant route!! Have some respect and if you can't manage that then keep your selfish notions to yourself. My hearts go out to those who were effected by this ordeal *by tragedy, and not by "lost frustrated idiots" who are probably thanking God for their safety now*

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cinderella89 says...
1:25am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly wrote:
*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village?
my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
Have you ever lived in a village - a nice quiet peaceful village.....and suddenly all those delayed, lost and frustrated idiots are using your main road as a substitute motorway because their raceway has been closed. Not nice - and just as likely to cause accidents too.
*
And the worst thing is that once they find their way through your lovely village - they'll do it again and again.
*
Granted that we will all spare thoughts for those involved in tonight's crash but these longer-term side-effects need considering too.
What on earth is wrong with you? You appear to be ridiculous. The "longer-term side-effects" are that there will be people who lost children tonight, and parents, husbands, wives ... everybody is somebody to someone out there ... there are people crying in hospital and worrying that they haven't heard from loved ones ... and THOSE are the long term effects. I am from a village and I can safely say the last thing I am thinking about is the consequences should a car who - thank heavens - avoided this awful crash drove through the area and thought it a pleasant route!! Have some respect and if you can't manage that then keep your selfish notions to yourself. My hearts go out to those who were effected by this ordeal *by tragedy, and not by "lost frustrated idiots" who are probably thanking God for their safety now*

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JoPopp says...
1:26am Sat 5 Nov 11

I live in a small town quite close to the M5 & if I can give shelter or comfort to anyone involved in this horrific accident I would do so willingly. Our retained firefighters are involved in the aftermath & I know this will affect each & every one of them. They went from enjoying an evening lighting fireworks for the community to this devastating carnage, my thoughts go out to each & every person affected by this tragic event.

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Mark1970 says...
1:30am Sat 5 Nov 11

@ simbaspride - I honestly cannot see how fireworks are to blame, in my own view. How many fireworks nights have there been? I agree that fireworks can cause a smog, but not that far reaching or devastating as you are implying. Going past the rugby ground you could not see, but looking down the M5 then you could not see for miles. If fireworks are to blame for this tragedy, which I cannot 100% see, then I hope that they are never allowed to hold another display ever.

As for crazybanana - the speed limit is not the issue, the weather conditions were, there is a huge difference. There should be more signs available to tell motorists to warn about bad conditions, and too slow down. Sadly some drivers never pay any attention to those warnings.

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petersmith2019 says...
3:13am Sat 5 Nov 11

the lord works in mysterious ways......

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Mark1970 says...
3:56am Sat 5 Nov 11

@ scally666 - Only someone stupid enough to have 666 would worry about a carnival, 666 is a misconception of the number of the beast. The 666 should read 999 and that is no bad comment about the police, but the number of the devil is actually 999 the 666 is just a misgiving from folk lore. It was read upside down, if you actually want to read properly. Hey you are more worried about stupid carnivals, than the dead hey ho.

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Mark1970 says...
3:56am Sat 5 Nov 11

@ scally666 - Only someone stupid enough to have 666 would worry about a carnival, 666 is a misconception of the number of the beast. The 666 should read 999 and that is no bad comment about the police, but the number of the devil is actually 999 the 666 is just a misgiving from folk lore. It was read upside down, if you actually want to read properly. Hey you are more worried about stupid carnivals, than the dead hey ho.

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babey31 says...
7:22am Sat 5 Nov 11

i cannot believe how utterly insensitive some peoples comments on here are. Really who cares about traffic in villages, or the motorway being shut? i dont think you are quite understanding the severity of this accident. I felt sick to the stomach of the thought of all the people injured fighting for there lifes and people who did not win the fight. My heart goes out to all those who have been involved and all families who are involved.

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babey31 says...
7:22am Sat 5 Nov 11

i cannot believe how utterly insensitive some peoples comments on here are. Really who cares about traffic in villages, or the motorway being shut? i dont think you are quite understanding the severity of this accident. I felt sick to the stomach of the thought of all the people injured fighting for there lifes and people who did not win the fight. My heart goes out to all those who have been involved and all families who are involved.

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hevjay says...
7:30am Sat 5 Nov 11

feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
WHAT A CRASS COMMENT , FROM ANOTHER SELFISH VILLAGER, YOU ONLY OWN YOUR HOUSE NOT THE ROADS AROUND IT.
MOST LOCAL PAOPLE ARE PRAYING THAT NO-ONE THEY KNOW IS AMONGST THE DEAD OR INJURED, AND THINKING OF ALL THE PEOPLE INVOLVED, INCLUDING THE STRANDED.
YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED, I,D CALL YOU THE VILLAGE IDIOT BUT THAT WOULD BE AN INSULT TO IDIOTS!!!
GET A LIFE !!

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hevjay says...
7:33am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly wrote:
*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village?
my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
Have you ever lived in a village - a nice quiet peaceful village.....and suddenly all those delayed, lost and frustrated idiots are using your main road as a substitute motorway because their raceway has been closed. Not nice - and just as likely to cause accidents too.
*
And the worst thing is that once they find their way through your lovely village - they'll do it again and again.
*
Granted that we will all spare thoughts for those involved in tonight's crash but these longer-term side-effects need considering too.
GET A LIFE MATE, ITS NOT YOUR VILLAGE YOU PRAT, WHO ARE YOU LORD OF THE MANOR!!!
THE COUNTRYSIDE INCLUDING VILLAGES BELONG TO EVERYBODY, ESPECILAY THE STRANDED.
ANOTHER SELFISH VILLAGER!

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naughtybutnice2 says...
7:48am Sat 5 Nov 11

why are people worried about bloody carnival there are family's that have lost love ones and people still really ill or trapped its only carnival be back on next year those that have lost there lives wont be bk nxt year get a grip people that are asking if carnival still on carnival my heart goes out to all family's involved in this sorry if affened anyone just my option freedom of speech

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naughtybutnice2 says...
7:48am Sat 5 Nov 11

why are people worried about bloody carnival there are family's that have lost love ones and people still really ill or trapped its only carnival be back on next year those that have lost there lives wont be bk nxt year get a grip people that are asking if carnival still on carnival my heart goes out to all family's involved in this sorry if affened anyone just my option freedom of speech

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angle girls says...
7:57am Sat 5 Nov 11

i know carnival is important to bridgwater and pethy but how can people be worried if its still on . lives have been lost (R.I.P ) there will be another day for it just think of the poor familys that will be trying to get to the hospitols and other places that will get held up by not just traffic being diverted but the extra traffic becuse they would not paspone carnival.

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JodieTheyer says...
8:13am Sat 5 Nov 11

BlueEyesGirlie wrote:
souwesterly wrote:
*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village?
my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
Have you ever lived in a village - a nice quiet peaceful village.....and suddenly all those delayed, lost and frustrated idiots are using your main road as a substitute motorway because their raceway has been closed. Not nice - and just as likely to cause accidents too.
*
And the worst thing is that once they find their way through your lovely village - they'll do it again and again.
*
Granted that we will all spare thoughts for those involved in tonight's crash but these longer-term side-effects need considering too.
This is such a tradgedy! The poor families that will be affected by this horrific event. I don't know how someone can have a concern for a village road being used to help the situation. Thoughts & prayers go out to all involved.
I simply can not believe the insensitivity of some people. Many people are going to be affected by last nights incidents - Including families, friends and even by standers. It worries me that there are people worried about traffic through their village and carnivals not being on. What planet do you live on where anything comes before a persons well being and life?

My heart goes out to all of those involved and their families and friends. It's a horrible feeling you get when something like this happens so close to home. I've already had phone calls asking me if I am okay - Makes you see how bad it can be I guess.
Love to all.

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linzibee says...
8:20am Sat 5 Nov 11

JodieTheyer wrote:
BlueEyesGirlie wrote:
souwesterly wrote:
*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village?
my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
Have you ever lived in a village - a nice quiet peaceful village.....and suddenly all those delayed, lost and frustrated idiots are using your main road as a substitute motorway because their raceway has been closed. Not nice - and just as likely to cause accidents too.
*
And the worst thing is that once they find their way through your lovely village - they'll do it again and again.
*
Granted that we will all spare thoughts for those involved in tonight's crash but these longer-term side-effects need considering too.
This is such a tradgedy! The poor families that will be affected by this horrific event. I don't know how someone can have a concern for a village road being used to help the situation. Thoughts & prayers go out to all involved.
I simply can not believe the insensitivity of some people. Many people are going to be affected by last nights incidents - Including families, friends and even by standers. It worries me that there are people worried about traffic through their village and carnivals not being on. What planet do you live on where anything comes before a persons well being and life?

My heart goes out to all of those involved and their families and friends. It's a horrible feeling you get when something like this happens so close to home. I've already had phone calls asking me if I am okay - Makes you see how bad it can be I guess.
Love to all.
I couldn't agree more Jodie - I was taken aback to read one of the first comments which was whether North Petherton carnival was going to be affected - unbelievable!
I am so sorry to all those affected by last nights awful accident.

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Nigeram says...
8:22am Sat 5 Nov 11

.Southwesterly,feeby
12007 and scally666 hold your heads in shame.I have never commented on a news article before but felt obliged to set up a log in purely to tell you that you are absolutely disgusting.I'm visiting the area this weekend and would happily be diverted through every **** village in the uk,whilst counting my blessings if it means the emergency services can do their work.

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hevjay says...
8:23am Sat 5 Nov 11

naughtybutnice2 wrote:
why are people worried about bloody carnival there are family's that have lost love ones and people still really ill or trapped its only carnival be back on next year those that have lost there lives wont be bk nxt year get a grip people that are asking if carnival still on carnival my heart goes out to all family's involved in this sorry if affened anyone just my option freedom of speech
Hear, hear, so what if any of the carnivals are cancelled, they should be cancelled as a mark of respect, north petherton carnival should be either postphoned or cancelled.

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Nigeram says...
8:24am Sat 5 Nov 11

.Southwesterly,feeby
12007 and scally666 hold your heads in shame.I have never commented on a news article before but felt obliged to set up a log in purely to tell you that you are absolutely disgusting.I'm visiting the area this weekend and would happily be diverted through every **** village in the uk,whilst counting my blessings if it means the emergency services can do their work.

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Lizbe68 says...
8:27am Sat 5 Nov 11

Absolutly gutted for Taunton, what a tragedy. My thoughts are with the brave emergency services and what they had to deal with tonight. My friend was called back into the hospital to work and she said it was a very sad place to be last night, everyone working tirelessly to help in theatres. My friend came home this morning and hugged her family,she told me as it times like this that remind you how precious life is and how quickly it is taken away. My prayers to the families affected by this tragedy.

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MrsS2be813 says...
8:35am Sat 5 Nov 11

When I read this on the news last night I felt sick to my stomach. What makes me feel even worse is that when I saw one of the helicopters scramble (I'm guessing from Filton) I thought it was to attend to some misbehaving youths in the area, never did it pass my mind something so horrific had happened.

My thoughts go out to the men, women and children affected by this horrific collision. I have a relative who worked for the fire brigade and friends in the police and ambulance services, those guys have big hearts and they will be feeling the pain as much as the families, friends and individuals who have suffered. My thoughts are with the hundreds, not tens, who will suffer as a result of one terrible accident.

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mrcynical says...
8:45am Sat 5 Nov 11

*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village?
my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
EXACTLY my thought when I saw that post. MANY people will have been affected by this awful tragedy and feeby12007 is worried about traffic in a village?!
Get a grip on yourself!!
Maybe you've never lost someone very close to you, maybe traffic can be a bane on motorists, but REALLY?!
Don't you think the emergency services have bigger things to worry about during an incident like that instead of whether you'll get your morning paper on time due to jams?
Pathetic.

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mrcynical says...
8:45am Sat 5 Nov 11

EXACTLY my thought when I saw that post. MANY people will have been affected by this awful tragedy and feeby12007 is worried about traffic in a village?!
Get a grip on yourself!!
Maybe you've never lost someone very close to you, maybe traffic can be a bane on motorists, but REALLY?!
Don't you think the emergency services have bigger things to worry about during an incident like that instead of whether you'll get your morning paper on time due to jams?
Pathetic.

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kiddynet says...
8:49am Sat 5 Nov 11

Last year in the UK there were a total of 222,146 reported road casualties of all severities,
2,222 people were killed, 24,690 seriously injured and 195,234 injured. Total = £15,800,134,250.

Each year 30 children are killed, 300 seriously injured and 16,000 are hurt in car crashes. (RoSPA)
At an average cost of "£71,125" per injury this costs the UK economy £1,161,471,250 per annum!

http://www.taxisafet
ynet.com/

http://kiddynet.com/

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souwesterly says...
8:50am Sat 5 Nov 11

When you drive on a motorway these days, the amount of really bad driving beggars belief. So many of those drivers are accidents just looking for a place to happen.....and last night they chose the N5 at Taunton.
*
Whilst having all sympathies for the families and loved ones of those involved and much cheer in my support for the emergency services, many of those involved in the accident itself pretty well deserved what happened - and again, I utterly feel for those innocent cautious drivers who were probably tail-ended by maniacs.
*
Those (be they rubberneckers, half-asleep drivers or plain speedsters) who hopefully the police can prosecute have caused untold misery to so many.
To the friends and families of those killed or injured.
To the many children who won't understand the details - except to know that their fireworks or carnivals are off.
To umpteen people who are now going to have to put up with gridlock all over the weekend - and to those who's peaceful existance will be blighted.
*
If this had been a small crash with a single fatality it probably wouldn't have made the papers. But even so, in reality, its merely the equivalent of what happens every night around the country (or county) - squeezed into one event.
*
Please, some of you who are wailing and weeping everywhere, events such as these impact many people in many ways - and each way is important to those whom it affects.
In no way have I felt insensitive - I have merely made observations that may show the 'other side' of such an event.

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souwesterly says...
8:51am Sat 5 Nov 11

When you drive on a motorway these days, the amount of really bad driving beggars belief. So many of those drivers are accidents just looking for a place to happen.....and last night they chose the N5 at Taunton.
*
Whilst having all sympathies for the families and loved ones of those involved and much cheer in my support for the emergency services, many of those involved in the accident itself pretty well deserved what happened - and again, I utterly feel for those innocent cautious drivers who were probably tail-ended by maniacs.
*
Those (be they rubberneckers, half-asleep drivers or plain speedsters) who hopefully the police can prosecute have caused untold misery to so many.
To the friends and families of those killed or injured.
To the many children who won't understand the details - except to know that their fireworks or carnivals are off.
To umpteen people who are now going to have to put up with gridlock all over the weekend - and to those who's peaceful existance will be blighted.
*
If this had been a small crash with a single fatality it probably wouldn't have made the papers. But even so, in reality, its merely the equivalent of what happens every night around the country (or county) - squeezed into one event.
*
Please, some of you who are wailing and weeping everywhere, events such as these impact many people in many ways - and each way is important to those whom it affects.
In no way have I felt insensitive - I have merely made observations that may show the 'other side' of such an event.

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Simpson75 says...
8:54am Sat 5 Nov 11

My heart goes out to all the families that are effected. I've been watching the news and some people say it was foggy, some say not... Was it foggy? Or was it smoke from the fireworks display at Taunton Rugby Club blowing across the motorway that caused the crash? Or even the fireworks themselves distracting the drivers?

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Samej1 says...
8:58am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly wrote:
When you drive on a motorway these days, the amount of really bad driving beggars belief. So many of those drivers are accidents just looking for a place to happen.....and last night they chose the N5 at Taunton.
*
Whilst having all sympathies for the families and loved ones of those involved and much cheer in my support for the emergency services, many of those involved in the accident itself pretty well deserved what happened - and again, I utterly feel for those innocent cautious drivers who were probably tail-ended by maniacs.
*
Those (be they rubberneckers, half-asleep drivers or plain speedsters) who hopefully the police can prosecute have caused untold misery to so many.
To the friends and families of those killed or injured.
To the many children who won't understand the details - except to know that their fireworks or carnivals are off.
To umpteen people who are now going to have to put up with gridlock all over the weekend - and to those who's peaceful existance will be blighted.
*
If this had been a small crash with a single fatality it probably wouldn't have made the papers. But even so, in reality, its merely the equivalent of what happens every night around the country (or county) - squeezed into one event.
*
Please, some of you who are wailing and weeping everywhere, events such as these impact many people in many ways - and each way is important to those whom it affects.
In no way have I felt insensitive - I have merely made observations that may show the 'other side' of such an event.
Yes you ARE being insensitive. HTH

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craftychris says...
9:02am Sat 5 Nov 11

Mr Pedant wrote:
Just heard on TV that the motorway could be closed for 24 hours between junctions 23 and 25!
My heart goes out to everyone involved in this terrible accident what a sad day it must be, I was born and brought up in Taunton and travelled that road so many times.

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egg1969 says...
9:21am Sat 5 Nov 11

firstly i wish everyone affected by this awfall incident my love and best wishes, such a sad string of avents that should have never happened.
From what ive been told by people at the firework display is that it may have been a major factor to last nights crash lots of smoke and massive fireworks from the rugby club firework display just yards from the m5 motorway ,who on earth passed this event in the first place,it would be wrong to blame any of the drivers involved in the crash ,no firework event such as this, so close to a dangerous road should ever take place and someone should be held accountable.
The council tell farmers to remove advertising trailers that do no harm but allow events such as this,
god bless

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WestCountryCider says...
9:31am Sat 5 Nov 11

linzibee wrote:
JodieTheyer wrote:
BlueEyesGirlie wrote:
souwesterly wrote:
*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village?
my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
Have you ever lived in a village - a nice quiet peaceful village.....and suddenly all those delayed, lost and frustrated idiots are using your main road as a substitute motorway because their raceway has been closed. Not nice - and just as likely to cause accidents too.
*
And the worst thing is that once they find their way through your lovely village - they'll do it again and again.
*
Granted that we will all spare thoughts for those involved in tonight's crash but these longer-term side-effects need considering too.
This is such a tradgedy! The poor families that will be affected by this horrific event. I don't know how someone can have a concern for a village road being used to help the situation. Thoughts & prayers go out to all involved.
I simply can not believe the insensitivity of some people. Many people are going to be affected by last nights incidents - Including families, friends and even by standers. It worries me that there are people worried about traffic through their village and carnivals not being on. What planet do you live on where anything comes before a persons well being and life?

My heart goes out to all of those involved and their families and friends. It's a horrible feeling you get when something like this happens so close to home. I've already had phone calls asking me if I am okay - Makes you see how bad it can be I guess.
Love to all.
I couldn't agree more Jodie - I was taken aback to read one of the first comments which was whether North Petherton carnival was going to be affected - unbelievable!
I am so sorry to all those affected by last nights awful accident.
How pure senseless and callous can some people be, traffic through your village? Petherton carnival? At times like these how can such so called human beings be so cold? Spare a thought for those who have been involved, the families and friends who's lives have been devastated by this traggic accident. The emergency services and those who witnessed.
I hope 'freeby12007' it's not you getting one of those visits from the Police tonight - but just think maybe - one day - one day it may just happen!

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WestCountryCider says...
9:34am Sat 5 Nov 11

scally666 wrote:
hoping ppl are ok
also this must mean petherton carnival wont go ahead????
PURE SELFLESS SELFISHNESS - What if it was your family involved?

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WestCountryCider says...
9:38am Sat 5 Nov 11

PURE SELFLESS SELFISHNESS - What if it was your family involved?

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CecilTorrie says...
9:39am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly wrote:
When you drive on a motorway these days, the amount of really bad driving beggars belief. So many of those drivers are accidents just looking for a place to happen.....and last night they chose the N5 at Taunton. * Whilst having all sympathies for the families and loved ones of those involved and much cheer in my support for the emergency services, many of those involved in the accident itself pretty well deserved what happened - and again, I utterly feel for those innocent cautious drivers who were probably tail-ended by maniacs. * Those (be they rubberneckers, half-asleep drivers or plain speedsters) who hopefully the police can prosecute have caused untold misery to so many. To the friends and families of those killed or injured. To the many children who won't understand the details - except to know that their fireworks or carnivals are off. To umpteen people who are now going to have to put up with gridlock all over the weekend - and to those who's peaceful existance will be blighted. * If this had been a small crash with a single fatality it probably wouldn't have made the papers. But even so, in reality, its merely the equivalent of what happens every night around the country (or county) - squeezed into one event. * Please, some of you who are wailing and weeping everywhere, events such as these impact many people in many ways - and each way is important to those whom it affects. In no way have I felt insensitive - I have merely made observations that may show the 'other side' of such an event.
The more I read this post, the more I feel that it is perhaps someone attempt at crass humour.
To cite "beggars belief" and assumptions made using your clearly very calculated driver profiles as causation for this accident is nonsensical.
Something which you should perhaps consider focusing on would be the ability to never assume. Bearing in mind that you appear to be someone who would like to take the moral high-ground, by spouting why you think this accident has been caused and your version of the effects. Perhaps you should leave the analysis of cause and effect to the people who have some degree of expertise and are being paid to do so. Your voluntary work on this matter is unfortunately inaccurate, narrow minded (in my humble opinion), undignified and unwelcome.
I think that given the mutually exclusive options of this tragic accident not occurring and the associate impacts(by these I mean to the families etc) versus reduced journey times in a “peaceful village”, any person who is of any merit or worth in my opinion would not even have to think twice about this choice!
So perhaps, before making comments that are based on assumptions and that could clearly cause offence you might want to think twice.

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egg1969 says...
9:43am Sat 5 Nov 11

feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
oh poor you ,you must be living in West Buckland , you never no whats round the corner you may get into a situation yourselve such as this and may need help and it could be from some of those affected by last night , i if people need to get home via a different route let them ,get out there and help them, you must be a grump from the village that moans about everything, i think that you should go and meet some of those affected by incidents such as these and it may change your outlook on life and how valuabe it is, my self and others i no would go out of there way to help those in need not just pull the curtains and shut the world away untill things have passed

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egg1969 says...
9:43am Sat 5 Nov 11

feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
oh poor you ,you must be living in West Buckland , you never no whats round the corner you may get into a situation yourselve such as this and may need help and it could be from some of those affected by last night , i if people need to get home via a different route let them ,get out there and help them, you must be a grump from the village that moans about everything, i think that you should go and meet some of those affected by incidents such as these and it may change your outlook on life and how valuabe it is, my self and others i no would go out of there way to help those in need not just pull the curtains and shut the world away untill things have passed

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IQ says...
9:46am Sat 5 Nov 11

Mark1970 wrote:
@ simbaspride - I honestly cannot see how fireworks are to blame, in my own view. How many fireworks nights have there been? I agree that fireworks can cause a smog, but not that far reaching or devastating as you are implying. Going past the rugby ground you could not see, but looking down the M5 then you could not see for miles. If fireworks are to blame for this tragedy, which I cannot 100% see, then I hope that they are never allowed to hold another display ever.

As for crazybanana - the speed limit is not the issue, the weather conditions were, there is a huge difference. There should be more signs available to tell motorists to warn about bad conditions, and too slow down. Sadly some drivers never pay any attention to those warnings.
I have seen in the past and can imagine how, the smoke from a bonfire and fireworks, hanging in the damp air on a still night could appear as sudden dense fog and combine with other factors, the on-ramp junction, vehicles not leaving enough space to brake and a little inattention to create the conditions for an incident like this.

Also, for the hard of thinking, it is reasonable to worry about an unusual volume of vehicles on side roads/lanes as if they get stuck (and two trucks meeting each other could easily do that) would cause even more chaos and it makes it reasonable to close small roads to the volume of diverted traffic.

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cossymadjay says...
9:49am Sat 5 Nov 11

there is some small minded people in this world!! your village was prob there before the motorway so so what if people use it to get home to there loved ones. just keep it in mind next time that alot of people didnt get home to there loved ones last night!! my heart goes out to everybody involved.

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cossymadjay says...
9:50am Sat 5 Nov 11

there is some small minded people in this world!! your village was prob there before the motorway so so what if people use it to get home to there loved ones. just keep it in mind next time that alot of people didnt get home to there loved ones last night!! my heart goes out to everybody involved.

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cossymadjay says...
9:50am Sat 5 Nov 11

there is some small minded people in this world!! your village was prob there before the motorway so so what if people use it to get home to there loved ones. just keep it in mind next time that alot of people didnt get home to there loved ones last night!! my heart goes out to everybody involved.

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Duckorange says...
9:54am Sat 5 Nov 11

Just a thought: Instead of complaining about traffic through your village, or speculating uselessly about the cause of these terrible events, why not try going out and do something useful? Give blood. Maybe not today, but make a point of helping somebody who has been hit but some similar mis-chance.

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*fairy* says...
9:54am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly wrote:
When you drive on a motorway these days, the amount of really bad driving beggars belief. So many of those drivers are accidents just looking for a place to happen.....and last night they chose the N5 at Taunton.
*
Whilst having all sympathies for the families and loved ones of those involved and much cheer in my support for the emergency services, many of those involved in the accident itself pretty well deserved what happened - and again, I utterly feel for those innocent cautious drivers who were probably tail-ended by maniacs.
*
Those (be they rubberneckers, half-asleep drivers or plain speedsters) who hopefully the police can prosecute have caused untold misery to so many.
To the friends and families of those killed or injured.
To the many children who won't understand the details - except to know that their fireworks or carnivals are off.
To umpteen people who are now going to have to put up with gridlock all over the weekend - and to those who's peaceful existance will be blighted.
*
If this had been a small crash with a single fatality it probably wouldn't have made the papers. But even so, in reality, its merely the equivalent of what happens every night around the country (or county) - squeezed into one event.
*
Please, some of you who are wailing and weeping everywhere, events such as these impact many people in many ways - and each way is important to those whom it affects.
In no way have I felt insensitive - I have merely made observations that may show the 'other side' of such an event.
Another shocking insensitive comment! You have no idea what happened or why, you have no real facts or evidence to go on yet you decide those poor injured, dead and devastated people deserved that???
How about you wait for the experts to do their investigations and try to work out what caused the accident before you judge who deserves to die or be hurt!
Have you taken the time to check your loved ones are home safe before posting this comment? bet your feelings would change if someone you knew didnt make it!

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RustyKnight says...
10:02am Sat 5 Nov 11

It wa bad enouvh hearinv about this tragedy online and on the news on TV but the worst thing for me was that Sky news thought it appropriate to show a video that some idiot filmed on his mobile whilst driving past before the road was closed!
This sick personwill probably get away with driving without due care when he could have caused another accident.

If the motorway is still closed tonight how can they even consider Petherton carnival going ahead?

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kaynorton says...
10:09am Sat 5 Nov 11

R.I.P To those who tragically lost there life last night .My thoughts go out to there family and friends.

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6192tony says...
10:13am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly wrote:
*fairy* wrote:
feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
seriously? potentially 100's of peoples lives have been turned around tonight and you worried about traffic through your village?
my thoughts go out to anyone involved in the accident, their families, the poor on lookers and emergency services who must of seen some horrific sights tonight! lets hope everyone comes out of this ok, awful thing to of happened!
Have you ever lived in a village - a nice quiet peaceful village.....and suddenly all those delayed, lost and frustrated idiots are using your main road as a substitute motorway because their raceway has been closed. Not nice - and just as likely to cause accidents too.
*
And the worst thing is that once they find their way through your lovely village - they'll do it again and again.
*
Granted that we will all spare thoughts for those involved in tonight's crash but these longer-term side-effects need considering too.
What a selfish attitude, I live in a village and quite frankly find your pathetic worryinfg about extra traffic appauling.
last night potentally 100s of peoples lives where turned upside down and others where killed and you worry about extra traffic through you village? you sjhould be ashmed of your self !!!

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petestmichael says...
10:31am Sat 5 Nov 11

feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
Feeby.many people have suffered life changing injuries or have been killed.I find it pathetic and offensive that you can only think of disruptions and delays to traffic in your area! You haven`t even bothered to say how shocking and tragic it is!

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Rebelchick says...
10:31am Sat 5 Nov 11

Thoughts and many prayers from the US to the people and their families involved in this terrible tragedy. We are thinking of you and sending up prayers, hugs and love. XXX

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souwesterly says...
10:35am Sat 5 Nov 11

Well I'm not.
Human life is incredibly cheap - how many people die each year from one cause or another?
Not 10? Not 100? Maybe 100,000? More likely 10,000,000.
We've lost two members of our family to druken drivers so I do know how it feels - to those of you who's heads are in your hands.
Regrettably all you can do is to grieve and move on - all the recrimination doesn't help.....and when people persist in coming up to you and saying "I'm so sorry for you" you feel like punching them....
AND
In the same manner but this time with your roots now well buried - when your village gets desecrated, it's almost as bad as a loss....your home is being destroyed.
And I've been there too....
So kindly stop being so holy.
(And I did check with my 'loved ones' - they were all present and correct and logged in last night.)

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petestmichael says...
10:40am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly and feeby (feeble!) you must be two of the most insensitive people in the area.

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petestmichael says...
10:40am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly and feeby (feeble!) you must be two of the most insensitive people in the area.

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MINIME2 says...
10:44am Sat 5 Nov 11

We travelled across the hills at 1.00am this morning to get to the Wellington rounabout. The stream of traffic both behind and in front of us was like rush hour traffic moving at around 15 - 20 mph because of fog. I dont think for one minute anyone in the village we passed would have had any complaint about the traffic considering the severity of the accident.We all try to do our bit and we must think of the victims of the accident.

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*fairy* says...
10:48am Sat 5 Nov 11

souwesterly wrote:
Well I'm not.
Human life is incredibly cheap - how many people die each year from one cause or another?
Not 10? Not 100? Maybe 100,000? More likely 10,000,000.
We've lost two members of our family to druken drivers so I do know how it feels - to those of you who's heads are in your hands.
Regrettably all you can do is to grieve and move on - all the recrimination doesn't help.....and when people persist in coming up to you and saying "I'm so sorry for you" you feel like punching them....
AND
In the same manner but this time with your roots now well buried - when your village gets desecrated, it's almost as bad as a loss....your home is being destroyed.
And I've been there too....
So kindly stop being so holy.
(And I did check with my 'loved ones' - they were all present and correct and logged in last night.)
Yeah i thought you would of checked with all your loved ones before making such a terrible comment! You seem to be a real heartless, self absorbed little person, im surprised you have any friends to check on last night!
Human life is cheap? pop on over to the police station and ask if you can go with them as they inform people that someone they love has died in the tragic accident, or maybe nip into musgrove and speak to the people at the bedside of a family member they are desperately hoping will pull through and explain that to them, maybe you will see that actually life is invaluable, not cheap!

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felix1968 says...
11:03am Sat 5 Nov 11

SO WHAT IF CARNIVAL IS CANCELLED SO WHAT IF ITS DIVERTED THROUGH YOUR VILLAGE
Just thank your lucky stars that is was not you in the crash, its not you getiing that dreaded knock at the door.
Grow up and think of those poor people going through it all. my heart goes out to the families involved

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Gem64 says...
11:06am Sat 5 Nov 11

Speechless does not describe what I have seen written here. I am not even going to comment on the ignorance. I am though going to send my love and thoughts to all of those Who have lost loved ones, have loved ones with life threatening injuries and those of the walking wounded who will be scarred for life, and my thanks to all the Emergency Services both paid and voluntary who worked tirelessly to save the innocent lives caught up in the accident. These people will carry the memories of last night with them for life 999 services I salute you.

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felix1968 says...
11:15am Sat 5 Nov 11

Gem64 wrote:
Speechless does not describe what I have seen written here. I am not even going to comment on the ignorance. I am though going to send my love and thoughts to all of those Who have lost loved ones, have loved ones with life threatening injuries and those of the walking wounded who will be scarred for life, and my thanks to all the Emergency Services both paid and voluntary who worked tirelessly to save the innocent lives caught up in the accident. These people will carry the memories of last night with them for life 999 services I salute you.
well said, Thanks to the wonderful Emergency Services the doctors, the nurses and everyone else involved thinking off you all x

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felix1968 says...
11:15am Sat 5 Nov 11

Gem64 wrote:
Speechless does not describe what I have seen written here. I am not even going to comment on the ignorance. I am though going to send my love and thoughts to all of those Who have lost loved ones, have loved ones with life threatening injuries and those of the walking wounded who will be scarred for life, and my thanks to all the Emergency Services both paid and voluntary who worked tirelessly to save the innocent lives caught up in the accident. These people will carry the memories of last night with them for life 999 services I salute you.
well said, Thanks to the wonderful Emergency Services the doctors, the nurses and everyone else involved thinking off you all x

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kateifer91 says...
11:19am Sat 5 Nov 11

regardless of traffic, my thoughts are with those who are all involved, from loved ones to brothers and sisters. RIP to all those who have lost their lifes in such servere circumstances and thoughts to those who have been severely injured from this. Praise to all the emergency services and local hospital who have worked tirelessly all night and day to deal with this.

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fangos says...
11:21am Sat 5 Nov 11

Mark1970 wrote:
@ simbaspride - I honestly cannot see how fireworks are to blame, in my own view. How many fireworks nights have there been? I agree that fireworks can cause a smog, but not that far reaching or devastating as you are implying. Going past the rugby ground you could not see, but looking down the M5 then you could not see for miles. If fireworks are to blame for this tragedy, which I cannot 100% see, then I hope that they are never allowed to hold another display ever.

As for crazybanana - the speed limit is not the issue, the weather conditions were, there is a huge difference. There should be more signs available to tell motorists to warn about bad conditions, and too slow down. Sadly some drivers never pay any attention to those warnings.
OMG I don't think they are inferring that the smoke from the fireworks caused it. More likely people slowing down to "look" at the fireworks.

And to the comment about increasing the speed limit to 80mph how naive the speed limit was actually 40mph at the time of the incident.

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meekmeek says...
11:27am Sat 5 Nov 11

ok guys everyone stop with the bickering between each other. stop it NOW. bring the comments back inline.. we all know some people posted stupid comments and they have been replied to. lets all just calm down and just take a minute just to think about the families of the crash. stop the bickering with each other so many people have just had a life changing experience so lets stop worrying about carnivals and road congestions which will be over in 24 hours. my praise goes out to the emergency services whom have helped out last night and my condolences and thoughts go out out to all those effected. and those with injuries i send my wishes out to you that things get better.

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Samej1 says...
11:31am Sat 5 Nov 11

meekmeek wrote:
ok guys everyone stop with the bickering between each other. stop it NOW. bring the comments back inline.. we all know some people posted stupid comments and they have been replied to. lets all just calm down and just take a minute just to think about the families of the crash. stop the bickering with each other so many people have just had a life changing experience so lets stop worrying about carnivals and road congestions which will be over in 24 hours. my praise goes out to the emergency services whom have helped out last night and my condolences and thoughts go out out to all those effected. and those with injuries i send my wishes out to you that things get better.
Yep, the more it replies the more I'm convinced it's a troll...

So in the best tradition folks, Please don't feed the troll.

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Samej1 says...
11:33am Sat 5 Nov 11

(and that wasn't aimed at you meekmeek, I was agreeing with you although the 'quote' may appear otherwise so apologies)

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onetwothreefour says...
11:34am Sat 5 Nov 11

I was just further up the M5 Northbound as this happened, I stayed on for just one junction and it was so foggy I had been driving at about 35-40. I didn't see the point in trying to drive any faster. You couldn't clearly see further than 5 meters and it was actually a bit scary. While on the M5 I was disgusted that people were overtaking at at least 70 in the other lanes. Forgive me if I'm wrong but I can only imagine that these unbelievably stupid people must have been a contributing factor to this awful accident. These ****head drivers are selfish beyond belief. I don't drive like a t**t because of how I could affect other people, as well as myself. It actually makes me feel disappointed to be a human being when people are so thoughtless with their actions.

My thoughts are with anyone involved in this accident and my praise; with hospital staff and the emergency services.

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onetwothreefour says...
11:53am Sat 5 Nov 11

I had been on the M5 northbound just minutes before this happened and stayed on for just one junction because it was so foggy. I was driving at between 35-40 because you couldn't see clearly more than 5meters and it was actually a bit scary. I was disgusted that people were overtaking me at, at the very least, 70 mph in the conditions. Forgive me if I'm wrong, but I imagine that thoughtless individuals like these must have been a contributing factor to this terrible accident. These ****head drivers are unbelievably selfish. I don't drive like a t**t because of the effect my actions could have on others, as well as myself. Reckless, thoughtless people like this are enough to make me feel almost embarrassed to be a human being.

My thoughts go out to anyone involved in this horrific accident and my praise; to hospital staff and the emergency services.

PS. No one give's a toss about your little village other than you, so quit complaining about the traffic. You're obviously isolated, narrow-minded people who think the world revolves around you're little bubble of life. It doesn't & no one wants to hear it. Get a grip.

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Old Harry says...
12:06pm Sat 5 Nov 11

Over 2000 people were killed on British roads last year. It is widely believed that over 90% of those fatalities were as a result of bad driving in some form or another. We all need to take a moment to consider our attitude to driving and road safety.

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cegy22 says...
12:09pm Sat 5 Nov 11

Heartfelt thoughts to all those who were injured or have lost their lives.

Shame on those of you who are more concerned about traffic through their villages and those who are more concerned about carnival! Carnival should be cancelled this year through respect for all those involved.

Also thanks should be going to fire, ambulance and police as well as all other rescue personel.
If anyone actually care then drop those poor souls a line and say thankyou as it could have been your relative they were pulling out of the fire!

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hevjay says...
12:16pm Sat 5 Nov 11

Duckorange wrote:
Just a thought: Instead of complaining about traffic through your village, or speculating uselessly about the cause of these terrible events, why not try going out and do something useful? Give blood. Maybe not today, but make a point of helping somebody who has been hit but some similar mis-chance.
I agree, i expect some of the people could have done with hot drink or even some water, whist passing through the village and no-one can say what the cause was yet

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Cstaunton says...
12:31pm Sat 5 Nov 11

Feeby12007 you disgust me! I am truly ashamed that someone who lives in this beautiful part of the country and enjoys all that it brings, can be so selfish and inward looking at a time of unprecedented tragedy in our region. Shame on you, you disgusting and vile creature!

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soraseetan says...
12:32pm Sat 5 Nov 11

feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
Feeby........over 10 people have died and numerous are injured...i think there are more pressing concerns here than your utter pathetic little issue with cars messing up your daily routines in your little village. Get a grip...so what if there are a lot of cars going through the village the emergency services are going to be focused on more important things than your analy retentive concerns.

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feeby12007 says...
12:36pm Sat 5 Nov 11

I have just got on my pc to find that people have made assumptions and have been rude about my comment very early on when i first read about the accident. I will reply to these people just this once but i do feel that i shouldn't as it is you who have jumped to conclusions and should not be so quick to judge.

When i wrote my comment earlier i was not aware of how serious the accident was as the report on it was not as detailed as it is now and of course i feel for all the families affected due to the reasons below.

I do not live in West Buckland (as assumed earlier by someone) but i lost someone very close to me who was hit by a speeding vehicle there) I did not feel it was appropriate to write this earlier as it was too personal.

I was trying to say is that to avoid more accidents keep the traffic to main lit roads where everyone will be safer as i know how it feels to lose someone i love.

I understand we are all affected by the accident but please do not take it out on each other.

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claire666 says...
12:39pm Sat 5 Nov 11

i would just like to praise all of the emergency services, rescue people and hospital staff that battle to help and rescue those people that were involved in this horrific accident.
My thoughts, love and prayers are with those poor families involved in this accident and the family and friends off them. RIP to the people that have so tragically lost there lives -

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Bridgwater girl says...
12:49pm Sat 5 Nov 11

Mr Pedant wrote:
Just heard on TV that the motorway could be closed for 24 hours between junctions 23 and 25!
Very sad news for all the people involved in the acccident on the M5 last night,
I am discusted with Chief Marshal Charlie Radford on his comment about the petherton carnival having to be cancelled tonight & that the clubs are loosing money.. Hello!! at least you are alive to watch the remainder of the carnival season this year!

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wacky1 says...
12:53pm Sat 5 Nov 11

I was at the fireworks display last night and witnessed the aftermath of the accident from the club itself. It was very foggy even before the display started. People are speculating that this awful accident could have been caused by the smoke from the display but it was at least 15 minutes after the end of the display that the crash happened - everyone was sat inside when we heard the news, followed by a big explosion. Someone suggested it might have been wind blowing smoke over the motorway but there was no wind last night. And as I have said, the display had been over for at least 15 minutes. At one point the fog was so thick that you could barely make out the lights of the emegency vehicles or the flames of the fire. Everyone who knows this area and has travelled on this stretch of motorway knows that the fog can rise very quickly.

Having said all this, it does not detract from this tragedy and how horrific it must be for all involved, their families and the emergency personnel. My thoughts are with them all.

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egg1969 says...
12:55pm Sat 5 Nov 11

feeby12007 wrote:
I have just got on my pc to find that people have made assumptions and have been rude about my comment very early on when i first read about the accident. I will reply to these people just this once but i do feel that i shouldn't as it is you who have jumped to conclusions and should not be so quick to judge.

When i wrote my comment earlier i was not aware of how serious the accident was as the report on it was not as detailed as it is now and of course i feel for all the families affected due to the reasons below.

I do not live in West Buckland (as assumed earlier by someone) but i lost someone very close to me who was hit by a speeding vehicle there) I did not feel it was appropriate to write this earlier as it was too personal.

I was trying to say is that to avoid more accidents keep the traffic to main lit roads where everyone will be safer as i know how it feels to lose someone i love.

I understand we are all affected by the accident but please do not take it out on each other.
oh yeh i think no who you are now,bringing the area to shame ,just say sorry for the earlier comment

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egg1969 says...
12:55pm Sat 5 Nov 11

feeby12007 wrote:
I have just got on my pc to find that people have made assumptions and have been rude about my comment very early on when i first read about the accident. I will reply to these people just this once but i do feel that i shouldn't as it is you who have jumped to conclusions and should not be so quick to judge.

When i wrote my comment earlier i was not aware of how serious the accident was as the report on it was not as detailed as it is now and of course i feel for all the families affected due to the reasons below.

I do not live in West Buckland (as assumed earlier by someone) but i lost someone very close to me who was hit by a speeding vehicle there) I did not feel it was appropriate to write this earlier as it was too personal.

I was trying to say is that to avoid more accidents keep the traffic to main lit roads where everyone will be safer as i know how it feels to lose someone i love.

I understand we are all affected by the accident but please do not take it out on each other.
oh yeh i think no who you are now,bringing the area to shame ,just say sorry for the earlier comment

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Somerset_BTGOG says...
2:34pm Sat 5 Nov 11

Before anyone else comments just take a few seconds to read through what you have written, please!
*
People have died in an awful accident on Taunton's doorstep, show some respect!

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honey21 says...
2:42pm Sat 5 Nov 11

somerset_BTGOG
You are right.

All you people with your selfish, bickering comments............
.. look at the real picture here.
There are people who have lost their nearest and dearest, have got loved ones seriously injured in hospital and a lot of people who will be traumatised by this for a very long time, including the members of the emergency services, and all you can worry about is trivial things and then go on to bicker about them!!!
You should be ashamed.

These people do not want to one day end up reading these stupid comments!!!

My thoughts go out to all involved, and the highest praise for all the emergency services
xxx

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mikeymike says...
3:20pm Sat 5 Nov 11

Perhaps ALL the idiots should STFU and pay respects to the 7 dead and 51 injured and the emergency services who are STILL THERE dealing with it!!!!

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MINIME2 says...
4:00pm Sat 5 Nov 11

When the goverment are talking about cuts they should take a look at the emergency services that dealt with this horrific accident with love, care and compassion. Hopefully people who have been affected by this can be sure their loved ones were in caring loving hands. We all say a big thankyou to all emergency services involved including the nursing staff receiving the patients at the hospitals .Thankyou does not begin to tell them how gratefull perfect strangers are for their dedication to these victims.

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sooty54 says...
4:01pm Sat 5 Nov 11

"James, from Bridgwater, who had been stuck in the tailbacks for six hours at 2am yesterday (Saturday) morning said: "Everybody is in the same position but it would be nice to be told what is going on.

"It looks like it is going to be a big wait but we just want to be kept updated."

I think everyone involved was perhaps a little bit more concerned about dealing with those who were trapped and injured than those sat in the queue. Probably a good idea to put the radio on, reporters are the bringers of news.

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mouse 23 says...
4:02pm Sat 5 Nov 11

Bridgwater would like to send all their thoughts and prayers to all the famlies and loved ones to those involved in the accident on the M5 on the 4th nov 2011

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thomo43 says...
4:04pm Sat 5 Nov 11

During the six hour wait on the M5, my wife and I were moved by the kindness of the two complete strangers who showed such kindness in giving us food and drink to see us through the long foggy night. Such altruism is heartwarming and reminds one of community spirit in times of misfortune.

Thoughts to the real victims in this tragedy.

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gravemind says...
4:18pm Sat 5 Nov 11

feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
So... families are wrecked and destroyed potenital parentless children. grief and mayhem have stricken familes and your concerned about your village having a bit more traffic? sorry but thats just screwed up and selfish.

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Mark1970 says...
5:07pm Sat 5 Nov 11

All what I can say is thank god the carnival was cancelled tonight. The roads in Taunton seem reasonably normal for the time of day. It seems a shame that the carnival was only cancelled due to police advise rather than the organisers, saying that this is a tragedy and we shall cancel out of respect. I hope that all fireworks displays are cancelled tonight as well. Our emergency services have done enough, without being having extra strain on them tonight.

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bridgygal says...
6:10pm Sat 5 Nov 11

"I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38." Oh my word!!!! The person who posted this must be so very very selfish and heartless. People like you need a reality check!
I send all my heart and devotion out to the poor people and families affected.

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togetheragain says...
6:21pm Sat 5 Nov 11

If I hear one more person moaning about carnival cancelled or more traffic through thier quiet village ... PLEASE .. there are people out there who wish they were either at the carnival or in your quiet village last night and NOT killed, crushed or seriously injured in this incredibly sad accident ... just take a step back and look at the bigger picture

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Alex@SDA says...
9:49pm Sat 5 Nov 11

I heard someone on the radio this morning saying that N.Petherton Carnival will still go ahead.

Also went on to say it will be a sad loss for years to come for North Petherton should it not happen, and the effect of this of this would be felt in Petherton for years to come, and could even mean the end of Carnival in the village.

May I thank the police for not only their sterling work associated with the tragedy, but also for preventing this "celebration" at such a sensitive time.

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metotigger says...
10:06pm Sat 5 Nov 11

this was a major tradagy for all involved this was probabaky caused by many factors all addibg together the weather was crud raining so spray would have been a issue with visabiliry then there was orobabaly smoke from the fireworka or fog it was just a unfortnat turn of evens that has now started off chain reactions of greif and other problems like injurys hold ups etc . um gratfull that we have ppl we can rely on ie the emergancy services thatnk you to all involved for u help with the situation . thoughts to all friends and family of everyone involved

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hayley1 says...
10:38pm Sat 5 Nov 11

thoughts go out to all friends and family god be with you

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Mark1970 says...
11:18pm Sat 5 Nov 11

Well just finished work, and this must be the worse guy fawkes ever, with the Bridgwater cracks, and the M5 tragedy. Tonight I saw two accidents one on the obridge via duct and one near the roundabout near east reach. I had to drive to creech again tonight, and past the rugby club, there was police sitting there, and going over the bridge again, it was full of news crews, and a few on lookers. What a nightmare weekend this has been and hope that no one has to suffer this again.

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Mature_Student says...
11:29am Sun 6 Nov 11

feeby12007 wrote:
I'm sorry this has happened but now the Wellington junction has been closed why not try and keep the traffic on the main roads and not let it go through villages causing more caos. Take the traffic up to Chelston roundabout and on to the A38.
I live in a quiet village but would NEVER make such a selfish comment like this. I spent saturday morning desperately trying to contact my Mum as I knew she had planned to travel on Friday evening. I was so worried that she had been caught up in the accident, luckily she rang me to say she was ok and had travelled earlier than planned. My heart goes out to those involved and affected by the accident.

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egg1969 says...
12:02pm Sun 6 Nov 11

wacky1 wrote:
I was at the fireworks display last night and witnessed the aftermath of the accident from the club itself. It was very foggy even before the display started. People are speculating that this awful accident could have been caused by the smoke from the display but it was at least 15 minutes after the end of the display that the crash happened - everyone was sat inside when we heard the news, followed by a big explosion. Someone suggested it might have been wind blowing smoke over the motorway but there was no wind last night. And as I have said, the display had been over for at least 15 minutes. At one point the fog was so thick that you could barely make out the lights of the emegency vehicles or the flames of the fire. Everyone who knows this area and has travelled on this stretch of motorway knows that the fog can rise very quickly.

Having said all this, it does not detract from this tragedy and how horrific it must be for all involved, their families and the emergency personnel. My thoughts are with them all.
the display had only just finished , the grand finally with loads of fireworks tons of smoke blew across the m5 mixed with the fog made it very very dangerous as we now no, what happened to common sense the smoke was clearly going over the motorway and it should have been stopped, health and saftey,what a joke ,stop blaming the rain, we never had any last rain was around 4 pm,the fog was light but mixed with the display made it impossible to see.
it is an offence to let the smoke blow across a road so someone needs to be held accountable

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Juleyanne says...
12:48pm Sun 6 Nov 11

I am from Sussex and I want to send my heartfelt condolences to the victims and the families of this terrible tragedy on the M5. Indeed lives of those and their families will be changed forever and I know the Somerset community will pull together to support the families involved. My parents live not far from Yeovil and we who reside in Sussex are very much thinking of you all and sending our love and thoughts at this sad time. God bless

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MINIME2 says...
2:31pm Sun 6 Nov 11

Mark 1970. I think you will find it was a joint decision between the police and carnival committee not to hold the carnival. Im sure this would be due to respect and safety issues.

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ablue2012 says...
2:54pm Sun 6 Nov 11

I Was at the firework display my first thought on arrival 730ish pm was omg glad im not driving on the motorway with all that smoke blowing over it. that has to be dangerous, why they close motorways when a vehicle is on fire because of the problems smoke causes. there was no wind as someone has already pointed out the smoke just lingered and built up more and more.

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MINIME2 says...
3:09pm Sun 6 Nov 11

The carnival will im sure make a comeback. There are people who lost their loved ones and had loved ones injured they cannot be repaired so lets get our priorities right here. Carnival will come back some of these will never come back. Think of their loved ones who have been affected by this tradegy.

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swjoduk says...
6:40pm Sun 6 Nov 11

My heart goes out to the poor people involved and those they have left behind. I am not suprised the police are looking into the smoke from the fire works, a friend told me Friday night after news of the crash that there was a huge bonfire at the rugby club and a massive firework display with lots of smoke. Surely they shouldn't have had fireworks so close to the motorway? It has always concerned me that some things are placed too close to our motorways, take Exeter Rugby club too, their must be balls that go over onto the motorway and people could swerve and result in an accident.

Can they not find room for North Petherton Carnival at the end of the calender and use that as the close this year. Most of the clubs are based around Bridgwater or town in Ilminster and S Devon.

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swjoduk says...
6:40pm Sun 6 Nov 11

My heart goes out to the poor people involved and those they have left behind. I am not suprised the police are looking into the smoke from the fire works, a friend told me Friday night after news of the crash that there was a huge bonfire at the rugby club and a massive firework display with lots of smoke. Surely they shouldn't have had fireworks so close to the motorway? It has always concerned me that some things are placed too close to our motorways, take Exeter Rugby club too, their must be balls that go over onto the motorway and people could swerve and result in an accident.

Can they not find room for North Petherton Carnival at the end of the calender and use that as the close this year. Most of the clubs are based around Bridgwater or town in Ilminster and S Devon.

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milo10 says...
10:45pm Sun 6 Nov 11

Whether it be the organisers at Taunton Rugby Club... the person who granted the licence or the fireworks company.. someone is accountable for what happened. Not one person had any common sense. I have seen through a previous job the effects of smoke generated by a bonfire/fireworks can have on motorway visability. No doubt someone had profits in mind and should now have blood on their hands.

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Lisax2 says...
10:58pm Sun 6 Nov 11

Whilst i agree that everybody is entitled to an opinion, i also think that there is a time and a place and this neither.
All comments should be aimed at how well the emergency services dealt with this tragedy and giving support to the families and friends affected.
Our thought

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Lisax2 says...
10:58pm Sun 6 Nov 11

Whilst i agree that everybody is entitled to an opinion, i also think that there is a time and a place and this neither.
All comments should be aimed at how well the emergency services dealt with this tragedy and giving support to the families and friends affected.
Our thought

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Lisax2 says...
10:58pm Sun 6 Nov 11

Whilst i agree that everybody is entitled to an opinion, i also think that there is a time and a place and this neither.
All comments should be aimed at how well the emergency services dealt with this tragedy and giving support to the families and friends affected.
Our thought

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Lisax2 says...
10:59pm Sun 6 Nov 11

Whilst i agree that everybody is entitled to an opinion, i also think that there is a time and a place and this neither.
All comments should be aimed at how well the emergency services dealt with this tragedy and giving support to the families and friends affected.
Our thoughts are with them.

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bts73 says...
11:16pm Sun 6 Nov 11

swjoduk - its dangerous to swerve to avoid small objects when travelling at speed as you are more likely to lose control of the vehicle, especially larger landrover types. i would allow small objects such as a rugby ball, or pheasant to fly into the car perhaps breaking the bumper or windscreen, than risk jackknifing the vehicle.

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milo10 says...
11:17pm Sun 6 Nov 11

My thoughts are without doubt to those who have been affected at this terrible time.. All of the emergency services and supporting services have gone beyond the call of duty. I only hope that justice is seen to those who acted without common sense and have affected the lives of the familes and friends caught up in this. My passion only represents the thoughts of this community.

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milo10 says...
11:18pm Sun 6 Nov 11

My thoughts are without doubt to those who have been affected at this terrible time.. All of the emergency services and supporting services have gone beyond the call of duty. I only hope that justice is seen to those who acted without common sense and have affected the lives of the familes and friends caught up in this. My passion only represents the thoughts of this community.

Report this post »

milo10 says...
11:18pm Sun 6 Nov 11

My thoughts are without doubt to those who have been affected at this terrible time.. All of the emergency services and supporting services have gone beyond the call of duty. I only hope that justice is seen to those who acted without common sense and have affected the lives of the familes and friends caught up in this. My passion only represents the thoughts of this community.

Report this post »

milo10 says...
11:18pm Sun 6 Nov 11

My thoughts are without doubt to those who have been affected at this terrible time.. All of the emergency services and supporting services have gone beyond the call of duty. I only hope that justice is seen to those who acted without common sense and have affected the lives of the familes and friends caught up in this. My passion only represents the thoughts of this community.

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milo10 says...
11:19pm Sun 6 Nov 11

Lisax2 wrote:
Whilst i agree that everybody is entitled to an opinion, i also think that there is a time and a place and this neither.
All comments should be aimed at how well the emergency services dealt with this tragedy and giving support to the families and friends affected.
Our thoughts are with them.
My thoughts are without doubt to those who have been affected at this terrible time.. All of the emergency services and supporting services have gone beyond the call of duty. I only hope that justice is seen to those who acted without common sense and have affected the lives of the familes and friends caught up in this. My passion only represents the thoughts of this community.

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milo10 says...
11:20pm Sun 6 Nov 11

Lisax2 wrote:
Whilst i agree that everybody is entitled to an opinion, i also think that there is a time and a place and this neither.
All comments should be aimed at how well the emergency services dealt with this tragedy and giving support to the families and friends affected.
Our thoughts are with them.
My thoughts are without doubt to those who have been affected at this terrible time.. All of the emergency services and supporting services have gone beyond the call of duty. I only hope that justice is seen to those who acted without common sense and have affected the lives of the familes and friends caught up in this. My passion only represents the thoughts of this community.

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swjoduk says...
12:00am Mon 7 Nov 11

It's good to see that the rugby club have released a comment and they have confirmed there was no bonfire. One things for sure, Fridays events will long live in the memory of people around here and those involved and left behind

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Mark1970 says...
12:01am Mon 7 Nov 11

If this is the fault of the rugby club, and the firework display, chances are that they have public liability insurance, but would it be as high as the cost of the accident and the loss of life. If found guilty and charged for this, then I can see the club folding, as this would run into the millions. When I drove it was white fog or smoke, I honestly could not say that it was black. Going past the rugby club though the visual ability was down to zero. It was worse going towards the M5 than it was coming back, but you couldn't see a lot on the return journey. There was some kid with a high vis vest on literally going into the road and being an annoying pest, not sure if he was 2 pence full of a full pound, as he was just stepping in the road, trying to direct the traffic when there was no need to. He looked about 16 if that. Even with a high vis jacket on, it was difficult to see him, and even worse for people wearing dark clothing, anyone could have been run over if a driver was going too fast.

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swjoduk says...
12:01am Mon 7 Nov 11

It's good to see that the rugby club have released a comment and they have confirmed there was no bonfire. One things for sure, Fridays events will long live in the memory of people around here and those involved and left behind

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RustyKnight says...
10:29am Mon 7 Nov 11

I'm sure I heard on TV that someone from the fireworks company said the wind wasn't blowing in the direction of the motorway, yet on some of the videos the smoke from the accident can clearly be seen blowing towards the southbound carriageway,ergo from the direction of the rugby club!

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Mark1970 says...
10:41am Mon 7 Nov 11

Rusty no one will want to claim responsibility simply because it means that they are possibly guilty of manslaughter and have massive fines. In hindsight we can all put the blame on different people, surely the council should take some responsibility and maybe even the emergency services in some respect, as surely they would have had to consult with all of them to hold a firework display in the first place. I might be wrong, but you surely would need permission from someone, and a risk assessment.

If the rugby club are to blame, I hope that they are never allowed to hold another firework display again. No matter how large or small it is.

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elsto99 says...
11:38am Mon 7 Nov 11

ok dont you think its time so stop blameing people and places and let the authoritys do there job and show some respect for people that have suffered

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Strawsonian says...
11:50am Mon 7 Nov 11

Doubt now being cast on the "smoke from fireworks display" theory:

http://www.guardian.
co.uk/uk/2011/nov/07
/m5-crash-smoke-theo
ry-unclear?CMP=NECNE
TTXT8187

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bts73 says...
1:39pm Mon 7 Nov 11

perhaps it should be made law that if you suddently lose visiblity while driving you should keep your hand on the horn in addition to releasing the accelerator - at least you might have a chance of hearing something in front of you.

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MINIME2 says...
7:51pm Mon 7 Nov 11

A comment in todays paper says that last year a company refused to set up a firewprk display at Taunton rugby club because of it's proximity to the motorway. So what made it different this year ? I am sure everyone who has made a comment on here are also thinking of the families of the bereaved and injured.

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KBizzle says...
9:52pm Mon 7 Nov 11

My sister was one of many paramedics that attended friday nights tragedy. I am so proud of her! ALL the emergency services did an amazing job,as did all the nurses,doctors,hca,e
tc at the hospitals. Can we also spare a thought for the call centre staff working that night who had to listen to some pretty horrendous things! I just know that i couldnt do what these people do,to deal with a tradegy of this magnitude AND then go out to the next shift must be so hard, WELL DONE to all.xxxxxxx To hear people arguing is just so sad,and even sadder is to hear people WHINGE about traffic through their village!!!!! REALLY??????? please just spare a thought for those who so tragically lost their lives and those who will be scarred for life!!! Much love goes to the White Familyxxxxxxxxxxxx and the other familys xxxxx

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KBizzle says...
9:52pm Mon 7 Nov 11

My sister was one of many paramedics that attended friday nights tragedy. I am so proud of her! ALL the emergency services did an amazing job,as did all the nurses,doctors,hca,e
tc at the hospitals. Can we also spare a thought for the call centre staff working that night who had to listen to some pretty horrendous things! I just know that i couldnt do what these people do,to deal with a tradegy of this magnitude AND then go out to the next shift must be so hard, WELL DONE to all.xxxxxxx To hear people arguing is just so sad,and even sadder is to hear people WHINGE about traffic through their village!!!!! REALLY??????? please just spare a thought for those who so tragically lost their lives and those who will be scarred for life!!! Much love goes to the White Familyxxxxxxxxxxxx and the other familys xxxxx

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nettee0 says...
4:25am Thu 17 Nov 11

A huge thank you to your sister and all the emergency service personnel who attended this tragic accident/incident.

I am just glad some of the commenters on here have gone quiet now. You should hang your heads in shame! You know who you are!!

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nettee0 says...
4:25am Thu 17 Nov 11

A huge thank you to your sister and all the emergency service personnel who attended this tragic accident/incident.

I am just glad some of the commenters on here have gone quiet now. You should hang your heads in shame! You know who you are!!

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nettee0 says...
4:27am Thu 17 Nov 11

A huge thank you to your sister and all the emergency service personnel who attended this tragic incident.

Some of the comments on here beggar belief. You should hang your heads in shame. You know who you are.

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MINIME2 says...
8:02pm Thu 17 Nov 11

Im afraid people never learn from theses tragedies. We travelled down the M4 and M5 on Monday around 2.30pm and cars were shooting down the outside lane like we were stood still and the warning signs were flashing 40 mph. How will you ever educate the ignorant who say it wont happen to me and have no regard for any other motorists.

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