THE devastated family of an elderly couple who were killed in an horrific accident have paid tribute to them.

John and Elsie Steel, aged 91 and 93, were hit by a bus as it turned into Bury Interchange on Monday.

The couple were due to celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on August 8, while Mr Steel was preparing to mark his 92nd birthday tomorrow.

They had two children, a son and a daughter, three grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

In a statement, the family said today: "Mum and dad were married for nearly 70 years and we were all looking forward to celebrating their wedding anniversary this summer.

"The family had already arranged the party and mum had even started to draw up the guest list.

"The whole family have been left absolutely devastated by their deaths but we can take comfort that after all of their years together, they have still not been parted.

"They touched so many people in their lives that we know they will be sadly missed."

Mr Steel, known to his friends and family as Jack, and his wife Elsie, lived in Talbot Grove, Bury.

The bus was travelling along Haymarket Street at 10.05am when it turned right into the entrance of the station and hit the couple.

Mr Steel was pronounced dead at the scene. Mrs Steel was taken to Fairfield General Hospital and died later that afternoon.

Mr Steel worked as a gardener for Bury Council for 21 years.

Mrs Steel worked as an auxiliary nurse at Bury General Hospital and later worked in the staff dining area.

She was an active member of Bury Parish Church and had been a member of the Mother's Union for 58 years.

Police are appealing for witnesses. Anyone who can help should contact officers on 0161 856 3572.