TRIBUTES have been paid to a man who died after being hit by a bus in Colchester.

The 39-year-old man from Frinton, named on social media only as Michael, suffered serious pelvic injuries during the incident in Hythe Hill just before 10am on Wednesday.

It is believed he may have stepped out in front of the bus as it drove down Hythe Hill.

He was flown by the Herts Air Ambulance to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge for treatment to life-threatening injuries.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “He sadly died as a result of his injuries in hospital on Friday.

“The bus, the No 76 operated by First Buses, was carrying a small number of passengers at the time of the collision.

“Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses and any passengers who have not yet spoken to police are asked to get in touch.”

Tributes were paid to Michael on the Gazette’s Facebook page.

Stacey Nial said Michael was like a brother to her.

She wrote: “Love you so much Michael. Our world just became so dark.

“You will always be my brother, thinking of your blood relations right now, love you all.

“Can never thank you enough for the part you played in my life, look over us all.

“There will never be another person like you ever, you truly were one of a kind.”

Lindsey Kendall added: “I can’t believe he's no longer with us. I miss him so much already. He’s made a big impact on a lot of people hearts.”

Friend Jodie Ross said: “He was such an amazing person and a great friend. I’ve got such memories of him.

“I am devastated. I can’t believe it.

“Michael you really are a true legend. I have so many memories of you and us all growing up.

“Your heart was made of gold. You looked after your own and you was loved by so many.”

A spokesman for First Buses previously confirmed one of its buses was involved in the road traffic collision.

He said the driver had been left shaken by the incident and that a full investigation would be taking place.

Residents in Colchester also took to Facebook to say their thoughts were with the driver involved in the incident.

Danielle Neal, from Colchester, said: “My thoughts are with the family of the man who passed and the bus driver involved.

“I can’t imagine what everyone is going through right now.”

Anyone with information should contact Essex Police’s Serious Collision Unit via 101 or collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk