A train collided with a school minibus at a railway crossing in Buggenhout, northern Belgium, killing four people including two children.

Five other children were injured and taken to hospital, but their conditions were reported as stable and not life-threatening.

Authorities said the minibus was carrying seven pupils from a school for children with learning disabilities, along with a driver and supervisor.

The impact was described as extremely violent, with the vehicle thrown several meters, while no passengers on the train were hurt, Euro News has reported.

An investigation has been opened to determine how the crash occurred, even though early reports indicated the crossing barriers were down and warning lights were active.