Victims of fatal A47 crash identified

Two men who died in a crash involving a double-decker bus and a lorry on the A47 near Guyhirn yesterday have been named by police.

Michael Elcombe, who was 45, and Brian Chapman, 76, died at the scene of the crash, which happened at around 7.30am on Tuesday.

Seventeen other people were injured in the crash, six of them seriously. Most of the injured were from Peterborough, with one from Hunstanton.

Mr Elcombe, who was from Swaffham, had been driving the bus involved in the crash. Mr Chapman, who was from Kettering, had been a passenger.

Steve Wickers, managing director of First Eastern Counties, the operator whose bus was involved in the crash, said: It was a very sad day yesterday for everyone involved in what was a devastating incident on the A47 in Guyhirn.

"I, along with my local team, would like to send our sincere condolences to the families, friends and colleagues who have lost a loved one from the incident and to extend my thoughts to those who sustained injuries, who I hope all have speedy recoveries.

"I would also like to thank the Police and the Emergency Services for their support yesterday, in what was a very traumatic situation to manage.

"Today has been a challenge, especially for the colleagues and friends of Michael, our driver at Kings Lynn bus depot, who sadly lost his life.

"But, as true professionals and as dedicated as they are, our drivers have all come into work this morning and are providing a full service for customers."

Police say the A47 will remain closed for three to four more hours as investigations continue.

Insp Jamie Langwith, from the combined Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire roads policing unit, said earlier: “It is horrendous, an awful scene. There was upwards of 20 officers, several fire and several ambulances as well."

He said the lorry driver has been questioned, but no arrests have been made.

Diversions remain in place and the road is likely to be closed for some time while investigations continue.

Drivers heading eastbound are being directed to take the Whitepost roundabout to the A1139, then head southbound towards Parnwell, then take the A604 east to the Fletton Interchange, then the A141 to re-join the A47 at Guyhirn.

Drivers heading westbound are being directed to follow the same diversion route in reverse.

Police have also appealed for anyone who saw the crash to contact them via the non-emergency 101 number.