Two Bee Network buses smash into each other at station as passengers told 'get off'

One bus reportedly reversed into another at Middleton bus station

An investigation has been launched after multiple passengers reported being injured and 'shook-up' in a crash at Middleton bus station.

Two Bee Network buses were involved in a collision at the station at around 4.30pm on Thursday (April 24).

It's understood both buses were number 59 services, operated by Stagecoach, with one bound for Manchester city centre and the other for Oldham.

Witnesses reported seeing one of the buses reversing into the other.

An image from the scene shows damage to the side of one of the two buses, with debris including a panel seen on the ground.

Some passengers have raised concerns about being told to 'get off the bus' while still shaken in the moments after the crash, before boarding another service or leaving the scene on foot.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) says its thoughts are with the passengers who were on board at the time, and an investigation is taking place with Stagecoach.

Peter Boulton, TfGM’s Network Director for Highways, said: "On Thursday, April 24, a collision occurred involving two buses at Middleton Bus Station.

"This will clearly have been an upsetting incident for the passengers on board.

"Our thoughts are with them today, particularly those who were injured and supported by emergency services.

"Safety on the Bee Network is our number one priority, whether on board, or at a bus station or interchange.

"We are working closely with Stagecoach, the operator of both buses, to carry out a full and thorough investigation to understand the cause and handling of the collision."

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