CUSTOMS officers checking a coachload of Wiveliscombe schoolchildren returning from a trip abroad made a grim discovery.

The officials found the body of a would-be asylum seeker underneath the vehicle.

The youngsters from Kingsmead School were comforted by teachers ahead of their arrival back in the Somerset town.

Kingsmead assistant head teacher Julie Elmy has written to parents following the trip to Germany.

In the letter she said: "You may also have heard some very upsetting news.

"Coming through customs today it was discovered that somebody had hidden on the bottom of the coach, on the outside.

"Unfortunately they did not survive.

"This probably happened when the coach stopped in Belgium.

"Students were aware of this as they overheard one of the customs officials talking about it.

"We do not have any further information at the moment."

She added: "We thought it best to let you know about this once your child was safely back at home.

"Students on the bus did not seem to be speaking much about it but I am sure they will want to talk it through with you over the coming days and weeks.

"I am really sorry to have to share such shocking news with you."