NEWS of the tragedy came out as local LibDems were holding their annual dinner at Wellsprings Leisure Centre, in Taunton.

West Somerset Coroner Michael Rose was among the guests and he left after receiving a phone call.

Taunton Deane MP Jeremy Browne and Bishop's Hull district councillor Justine Baker visited Musgrove Park Hospital earlier today.

Afterwards, Mrs Baker said: "I am upset just hearing what happened first hand and the amount of families involved. Just in shock.

"I can't believe this has happened on our doorstep.

"But after seeing first hand the Musgrove team working makes me feel very humble and proud of our local emergency services."