Dramatic video footage captured the moment a double decker bus went up in flames on the motorway. The bus caught fire on the M56, near Wythenshawe, on Monday afternoon (December 5).
Fire crews raced to the scene after drivers reported seeing the Stagecoach bus smoking on the left side of the carriageway at around 2pm. Images show multiple fire engines at the scene as firefighters worked to dampen the flames.
Huge plumes of smoke could be seen billowing overhead after the bus caught fire. It was filmed by concerned car passengers with roaring flames to the rear of the vehicle.
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It was confirmed that the bus was not in service at the time and that there were no passengers on board. Stagecoach have said they the driver escaped uninjured and are now investigating how the bus set alight.
A spokesperson for Stagecoach said: "We can confirm one of our vehicles has been involved in an incident on the M56 this afternoon. The bus was not in service.
"There were no passengers onboard and the driver safely evacuated from the vehicle. Safety is our number one priority, and we will be assisting the investigation into the circumstances involved."
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue service have been approached for further details on the incident.
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