A bus crash in Greater Manchester has left 15 people in hospital.

North West Ambulance Service declared a major incident shortly after emergency services attended the crash scene at the junction of Barton Road and Trafford Road in Eccles at 3pm on Monday.

Police, paramedics, 10 ambulances and an air ambulance were dispatched to the scene. The major incident status was stood down at 4.22pm, the ambulance service said.

One person is reported to be in a critical condition, and two have been left with serious injuries. Transport bosses have launched an immediate investigation.

It emerged on Monday night that the bus was not on its usual route. 

Vernon Everitt, the transport commissioner for Greater Manchester, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with everyone on board the bus. Our absolute focus has been on supporting emergency services in their response, with some people treated at the scene and some taken to hospital.

“An immediate and urgent investigation into the circumstances is under way, and we are working closely with the investigation team at Greater Manchester Police and the bus operator, Stagecoach.