Our social media feeds have been flooded with tributes to Stephen Shrimpton and Jessica Baker, who died when a coach carrying pupils to West Kirby Grammar and Calday Grange Grammar schools crashed on the M53.
40-year-old Mr Shrimpton was the driver of the vehicle, while 15-year-old Jessica is believed to have been a pupil at West Kirby Grammar School.
Another pupil is in a stable condition in hospital with what are described as “life changing injuries”.
The incident happened at around 8am on Friday morning when the bus was on its way to West Kirby to drop children off for the start of the school day.
On Facebook and Instagram, our readers have been giving their reaction to the tragedy, and paying tribute.
Here are just a small selection of the scores of comments.
Jan Hibbert
“This has rocked our world, can’t begin to imagine the pain and sadness. Thoughts are with Jessica’s family and those of the bus driver. Wishing the best recovery to all the others school children injured and traumatised by this event.”
Melanie Dolan
“She looks like a beautiful soul, my heart breaks for her family.”
Catharine Grossmith-Hague
“So sad. I’m heartbroken for Jessica and her family. My son came home from school tonight very sad and he said “all we can do is pray from them”. Jessica, you are in my family’s prayer tonight. My family are praying for you x”
Jennifer Hackett
“This just makes my heart ache. I’ve been thinking about this all day. Sending love & light to the family and everyone involved.”
Andrea Sherratt
“My thoughts are with Jess’s family and friends, a beautiful young lady taken too early. Such a sad day for all affected by this tragedy. X”
Charlotte Hughes
“It’s incomprehensible. My heart goes out to the poor girl’s family and friends. Heartbreaking and on our own doorstep.”
Stuart Brennan
“Devastating news, what a beautiful girl, can’t imagine the pain her family feel, may your star shine the brightest Jessica also thoughts with the family of the bus driver xxx”
Sevesmummy
“RIP Jessica. Taken far too soon. RIP to the driver of the bus too. So tragic to think that two people who set off that morning for what should have just been an ordinary day, won’t be coming home. Thinking about their families and everyone else affected by this heartbreaking accident.”
Leeanne Lockley
“My prayers and thoughts for Jess’s family and friends at this very sad time & deepest condolences to the coach driver. Also thinking about all the kids affected from Calday Grange Grammar School and West Kirby Grammar School May they receive the support they need.”
SteveBic1
“So sad, thinking of all the families and all involved.”
