Fundraiser set up for family of bus driver who died in M53 crash
The crash which was classed as a “major incident” took place on Friday morning on the M53 at Hooton.
Police were told just after 8am that a bus had struck a reservation around Junction 5 and overturned.
A 15-year-old girl and the bus driver died following the incident.
The driver has been named on social media by his family as Stephen Shrimpton.
The fundraising page, set up by his sister-in-law Emily Church, pays tribute to the dad-of-two.
It says: “He tragically died in an accident on the M53 on the morning on the 29th of September, after suffering medical issues at the wheel while driving students to school.
“He’s sadly left behind my sister who’s now a widow in her early thirties, and unfortunately a single mum alongside his much loved two young children who are only 8 and 4, who are going to grow up without their beloved father.
“Any donations to this unexpected circumstance would be much appreciated to give Stephen a funeral he deserves.
“I want to thank every single person that has donated since I’ve posted this. I’m absolutely amazed as people love and generosity in hard times.
“I am going to leave this page up until next weekend where we will take it down and use it towards Stephen’s funeral and other expenses that his wife will have during this.
“Sending all my love and gratitude. Hugs your loved ones a little tighter every morning and evening.”
The page, which was set up yesterday has raised £7,870 on the initial £6,000 target.
The teenage girl who died has been named as Jessica Baker, a 15-year-old student at West Kirby Grammar School.
The family issued a photograph of her as Merseyside Police said they requested privacy.
Jessica Baker (Image: Merseyside Police)
Pupils from Calday Grange and West Kirby Grammar Schools were travelling in convoy when the bus overturned carrying 54 people on board.
Merseyside Police said a total of 58 people were involved in the incident including the two fatalities.
Two children were taken to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital with serious injuries and another two casualties were treated at Wirral’s Arrowe Park Hospital.
One of those injured is a 14-year-old boy who has suffered life-changing injuries, said police.
Others involved in the incident were treated at an emergency training centre in Wallasey, with 13 treated for minor injuries before they were released.
To donate go to gofundme.com/f/d8c3p-stephen?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet-first-launch&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook[1]