EIGHT people have been taken to Basingstoke hospital after a coach overturned on the M3 motorway near Fleet services.

The motorway from junction 4a to 5 southbound has been closed while police recover the 40-seat coach.

A police spokesperson said motorists should avoid the area. A diversion has been opened along the A30.

It is expected to reopen by 10pm tonight.

Hampshire Constabulary said the coach overturned a mile north of Fleet Services at 6pm on January 6. It was travelling to Southampton.

The Dutch registered vehicle was carrying 26 Dutch nationals at the time of the incident.

Police report that one person has suffered a suspected broken bone, and the others taken to hospital were not seriously injured.