Essex bus driver seriously injured in crash is determined to return to work

Michael Birch was fighting for his life following a freak incident. Credit: ITV Anglia

A bus driver, who was almost killed when a steam engine fell off a lorry into his vehicle in Essex, has told ITV News Anglia he is keen to get back to work as soon as possible.

Father-of-four Michael Birch was one of 36 people hurt in the incident in East Mersea last September.

The crash happened on East Road in Mersea Island. Credit: ITV Anglia

Michael was driving along East Road in East Mersea at 9.50am on Wednesday 23 September 2015 when a steam engine fell off a lorry and into his bus.

Michael was trapped in the driver's seat, unable to move. He said he fell in and out of consciousness but remembers thinking he was going to die.

Michael was taken to hospital with serious injuries. Credit: ITV Anglia
Michael's injuries included broken shoulders. Credit: ITV Anglia

Michael was taken to hospital with serious injuries including: two collapsed lungs, broken shoulders and a fractured pelvis.

Since then he has had seven operations and now does two hours of physiotherapy everyday, however he is keen to get back on the buses.

Michael's colleagues were pleased to see him again. Credit: ITV Anglia
Michael does two hours of physiotherapy a day as part of his recovery. Credit: ITV Anglia

Michael won't be able to return to work until he's stronger but he's determined to do so.

Michael wants to get back in the driving seat as soon as possible. Credit: ITV Anglia

Essex Police are continuing to investigate the incident.

A 51-year-old man arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving is on bail until 24 March.

Click below to watch the full report from ITV Anglia's Liz Summers.