A LORRY driver whose steam engine load fell off and crushed a bus load of passengers has been told to expect time behind bars.

Philip Last was driving a Daf Low Loader which was carrying a steam engine which fell off the trailer and onto a bus on East Mersea Road in West Mersea on September 23, 2015.

Last, who had denied six counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, had been due to stand trial today at Ipswich Crown Court but changed his pleas at the last minute.

The 53-year-old, who admitted failing to secure the "significantly heavy" load, was warned by Judge David Goodin he should expect an immediate custodial sentence.

As a result of the incident, bus driver Michael Birch was left with life-threatening injuries including a protruding bowel.

Five other victims sustained extremely serious injuries.

Last, 53, of Northgate Street, Great Yarmouth, stood quietly while the indictment was read to him and spoke only to confirm his guilt.

He will be sentenced next month.