Up to 28 people have died in a bus accident on the Portuguese island of Madeira, according to local officials have said.
The accident happened at around 6.30pm local time (5.30pm GMT), near the Quinta Splendida Hotel in Canico on the island.
At a press conference, the President of the Regional Service of Civil Protection confirmed that 28 people had died, and 28 people had been injured.
Those who have been injured, which includes the Portuguese driver, are being treated at the Central Hospital of Funchal.
He added that a team of psychologists is helping the victims at the hospital, as well at the hotel, for those that did not head out with their group.
He confirmed that the bus itself was five years old and had no issues on its record.
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Local mayor Filipe Sousa told local media “I have no words to describe what happened. I cannot face the suffering of these people”.
He also said that the bus struck at least one house during the crash.
Local media reports that the most of the victims are believed to be German.
Several ambulances are at the scene and an investigation is under way.
Local MP Roberto Almada said the area is known as an “accident black-spot”.
He added: “This is an area that is relatively close to the town of Canixo.
“Before the spot where the coach went off the road, there’s a very sharp bend that goes from west to east and there’s been many accidents there in the past.
“It’s a very difficult area for drivers, especially drivers of larger vehicles.”
Tobi Hughes, editor of the Madeira Island News Blog told Sky News that the feeling on the island is that of shock.
He said he understands that the group had been picked up from their hotel and were on their way out for an evening meal when the accident happened.
Mr Hughes added that the road the bus was on was quite narrow and had a “tricky junction”.
Authorities confirmed that the weather was fine at the time, and the island was still light.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) have issued a statement saying: “We are seeking information from the authorities in Portugal about a bus crash in Madeira, and are ready to support any British people who require assistance”
