A tree was the only thing stopping the vehicle from slipping further down the mountainside. Multiple emergency services attended
The minibus came to rest against a tree(Image: Graham and Angie Alcock)
A minibus carrying passengers flipped over after veering off a country lane in the Eryri National Park. The Ford Tourneo was navigating a notoriously narrow and winding route that leads to a popular beauty spot above the Conwy Valley.
The vehicle ended up on its side, wheels in the air, after leaving the steep lane between Trefriw and Llyn Crafnant. Only a tree stopped it from sliding further down the hillside.
Remarkably, the five or so passengers and their driver escaped without serious injury. They were subsequently offered cups of tea by the owners of a nearby Airbnb.
The incident, shortly after 5.30pm on Sunday, April 12, triggered an extensive emergency response, the magnitude of which concerned local residents. “What the hell is happening?” said one woman online. “Sirens are non stop!”
Rushing to the scene were two fire engines, two ambulances and four police cars – the latter sealing off the road, reports North Wales Live.
As it was the sole access to Llyn Crafnant, police issued a social media appeal to any visitors stranded at the lake, urging “patience”. Stay in the know by making sure you’re receiving our daily newsletter
A Wales Air Ambulance also touched down in fields near the incident. In the end, the helicopter crew wasn’t required and they returned to Caernarfon airport via Anglesey.
A Wales Air Ambulance spokesperson said: “Our Caernarfon-based crew arrived at the scene at 5.50pm. On discussion with other services present, we were advised that we were not required. Our involvement concluded at 6.20pm.”
The alarm was raised by the owners of Gelli Newydd, a nearby holiday let. A local resident said: “They called the emergency services and explained that all the occupants had managed to exit the minibus without injuries.
“But I guess someone pressed the full-scale emergency button.”
The seven-year-old Ford Tourneo came to rest against a tree..
North Wales Police confirmed no other vehicles were involved. A spokesperson said: “At 5.41pm on Sunday, April 12, we received a report of a single vehicle road traffic collision in the Conwy Valley area, involving a mini-bus.
“Emergency services and the Wales Air Ambulance responded to the incident between Trefnant and Llyn Crafnant, which closed the road.
“No serious injuries were reported.”
The road serves as the sole route to Llyn Crafnant, a mile-long reservoir nestled where Gwydir Forest meets the lower slopes of the Carneddau mountains. It boasts a car park with facilities and a picturesque lakeside café.
Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, its appeal is only hindered by its challenging access, with many visitors opting to park and walk from the neighbouring lake of Llyn Geirionydd.
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