BUS company Stagecoach has called for a review of safety in Manchester's Piccadilly Gardens after two elderly women, including a 83-year-old from Bury, were killed within hours of each other.

The pedestrians were both struck by Stagecoach buses at opposite sides of the Gardens.

The Bury pensioner, named as Margaret Harrow, was killed instantly on Thursday after being hit by a double-decker as it turned left outside the TSB Bank near Piccadilly Plaza at 9.35am.

The second accident involving a Kathleen Lea, aged 69, from Sale, happened outside the Wetherspoons Pub two and a half hours later. She also died at the scene.

A police spokesman said neither of the pensioners were hit at designated crossing points. Accident investigations are still continuing and police have appealed for any witnesses to come forward.

Stagecoach managing director Tom Wileman said: "Our thoughts are with the families of the two people who have died in these tragic accidents.

"Our drivers have been very shaken by what has happened and we will be providing them with any support that they need.

"Piccadilly Gardens is a very busy and important interchange and we are asking the police and Manchester Passenger Transport Executive to consider a review of safety at the terminal."

Anyone who saw either accident is asked to call traffic police on 0161 856 3574.