Driver of M53 bus crash had 'medical issues' at the wheel, according to family

The driver of a bus which crashed on M53 has been named in reports as Stephen Shrimpton, with his family saying he had 'medical issues' at the wheel.

The man, along with a girl named as 15 year old Jessica Baker, died after the coach overturned on the northbound M53 near junction five at Hooton, Cheshire, at around 8am yesterday.

Tribute was paid to Mr Shrimpton in a GoFundMe page set up by his sister-in-law Emily Church, who wrote: "He's sadly left behind my sister who's now a widow in her early thirties, and unfortunately a single mum along side his much loved two young children who are only 8 and 4, who are going to grow up without their beloved father."

His family have also released this message via Merseyside Police:

“Stephen sadly passed away in a traffic accident. Stephen was a loving husband and father to his wife and his wonderful children, a caring and thoughtful man who would always prioritise others over himself. Stephen will be sadly missed by all his friends and family. The family have requested privacy at this devastating time.”

Jessica's family issued a photograph of her on Friday evening as they requested privacy.

Superintendent Sabi Kaur of Merseyside Police said: "This was a truly horrific incident and the impact on this will have been felt far and wide not only in Wirral but across Merseyside.

"Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of the girl and the bus driver as well as with those who have been impacted by this incident and we will do everything we can to support them in the coming days and weeks.

Four children were taken to hospital including a 14-year-old boy whose injuries are said to be life-changing.

Others were handled at an emergency training centre, with 13 treated for minor injuries before they were released.

Merseyside Police have now launched an investigation into the accident, and have asked for anyone who has dashcam, or who saw anything, to contact them.

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