A TAXI driver has told how he tried to avoid a horror smash in Prestwich, which resulted in 14 people being injured.

Carl Healey was driving a 3.5-ton minibus along Bury New Road, Sedgley Park, heading for Unsworth when it was in collision with a Ford Focus emerging from George Street in the early hours of Sunday.

The father-of-three had attempted to steer the minibus away from the car, but was unable to prevent a collision before the minibus then crashed into railings.

Mr Healey, aged 46, suffered two cracked ribs and his eight passengers were injured.

Two women in the car sustained serious head injuries, which were not described as life threatening. One of the casualties was believed to be pregnant. The three other car occupants also suffered injuries.

Witnesses said Mr Healey’s quick-thinking actions probably saved lives. Mr Hoss Jones aged 23, of George Street, said: “The aftermath was horrible. The damage to the minibus was so bad that it looked like it had been struck by lightning.

“It seems like the driver tried to control the extent of the collision and, judging by the injuries, he has saved people in the car losing their lives.”

Mr Healey, who works for Prestwich-based Blueline taxis, picked up the passengers in Manchester in his white LDV Convoy eight-seater minibus.

He said: “I was driving up through Sedgley Park at about 2.10am when the car came out from George Street.

“I was literally 7ft away. There was no chance of avoiding it, but I just tried to minimise the impact by swerving as much as possible. My first thought was for my passengers. None of them was badly hurt, which was a huge relief.”

Mr Healey added: “I have been driving for 27 years and never had so much as a bump.”

Firefighters used specialist equipment to free the car passengers while paramedics treated all 14 injured people at the scene. Twelve of the casualties were taken Salford Royal Hospital and North Manchester General Hospital.The two woman were still being treated at Salford Royal Hospital on Tuesday.

Blueline owner Gary Naven said: “Carl reacted very well.”

Police are appealing for witnesses to call them on 0161 856 7201.