A bus carrying Merseyside pupils from two separate grammar schools has overturned on the M53.

Pupils from Calday Grange Grammar School and West Kirby Grammar School were on board the bus when it crashed on the motorway’s northbound carriageway near junction 5.

Merseyside Police and North West Ambulance Service have been called to the crash with drivers urged to avoid the area.

In a statement posted on its Facebook page, Calday Grange Grammar School said: “We are aware of a situation involving one of our school buses on the motorway earlier today.

“We’re actively gathering details and assisting affected students and their families.”

Sherin Akhtar, a Labour councillor based in Cheshire, tweeted: “I can confirm that there has been an accident on the M53 this morning going towards the Wirral. It involves a Carvers coach ( W3) travelling to Calday Grange Grammar School and West Kirby Grammar school for girls. Once facts are established I will be able to update you further.

Merseyside Police tweeted: “Emergency services are dealing with an RTC along the M53 junction 5 northbound. Please avoid this area and find an alternative route.”

The Telegraph has approached the force and North West Ambulance Service for comment. 

This story is being updated.