TWO Metrolink controllers have been suspended after a collision between two Bury line trams was narrowly averted.

The drivers realised they were on the same track near the Crumpsall terminal and managed to slam on the brakes in time to avoid a crash last Friday. No one was injured.

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority have moved to reassure service users after the incident.

Cllr Roger Jones, Chair of Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority, said: "We are extremely concerned to learn of this potential incident as we place a high priority on the safety of Metrolink passengers.

"We want to ensure that there is an immediate investigation by all the safety bodies. The operators of the system, Serco Metrolink, have reported the incident to the Health & Safety Executive. We have Serco's assurance that they are currently undertaking a full investigation and we will await the findings.

"Metrolink has an excellent reputation for safety and we can assure passengers that operational safety systems went into action immediately, ensuring the continued safe running of the network."