Bus incident - updated statement

Double decker bus collided with the Milkstone Road railway bridge

First Manchester has issued an updated statement in connection with the bridge strike incident on Milkstone Road. 

At approximately 12.30pm a First Manchester bus was involved in a serious collision at a railway bridge on Milkstone Road in Rochdale resulting in the removal of the roof of the bus. The bus had been operating on service 17 from Manchester to Rochdale but was not on the route at the time of the collision.

First Manchester immediately implemented their emergency management procedures and sent representatives to the scene to provide support to customers, the driver and the emergency services. As a result of the incident the road was initially closed and then reopened at approximately 3.30pm.

As part of the investigation First Manchester will speak with witnesses as well as the driver concerned. The driver, who joined First in June this year is in shock but is physically uninjured.

Commenting on the incident, Teresa Broxton, Managing Director of First Manchester said:  
“Our primary focus remains the support of our injured customers and our driver. We will continue to offer our help to all those affected by this serious incident.

“We have launched an immediate investigation into the cause of the incident and will work closely with the emergency services as part of that work.

“I’d like to pass on my thanks to the local community and the emergency services following the incident.”