A BUS driver has died four days after a tractor crashed into his vehicle.

Steve Fox, aged 56, died at home in Bury on Tuesday night and police are yet to establish how he died or whether there was a link between his death and the crash.

Mr Fox's distraught colleagues paid tribute to the First Manchester employee as a wonderful friend and excellent driver.

"Everyone is in shock and our phones have been red hot since we found out. It has knocked everyone for six," said one of Mr Fox's colleagues, who asked not to be named.

He added: "He was a nice guy and was liked by so many people. It is so terrible what happened."

The crash took place near the junction of Wood Street and Bolton Street in Bury at 10.50am on Friday.

Police say the tractor crashed into the back of the bus – the 468 service from Tottington to Rochdale via Bury - when it was stationary at a stop on the Bury-bound side of the road.

It is understood seven passengers were on the bus. At least three of them suffered injuries.

One was taken to North Manchester General Hospital and others were taken to Fairfield Hospital.

A First spokesman said: "Mr Fox was examined by paramedics at the scene but did not go to hospital."

Referring to Mr Fox's death on Tuesday, a Greater Manchester Police spokesman said: "Our serious collision investigation unit has been made aware of this and is looking into the issue."

The Bury Times understands a post-mortem examination is due to be held in the next few days to establish the cause of death.

First Manchester's Bury operations manager Dave Brotheridge said: "We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of one of our colleagues Stephen Fox on Tuesday evening.

"Steve has worked at First in Manchester as a driver for over seven years and will be sadly missed.

"At this time, we don't know the circumstances of his death but we will continue to work with the police to support them in their enquiries.

"We are in touch with his family and will support them and his colleagues during this very difficult time."

Anyone with information about the crash should call police on 101.