Dying driver steers bus to safety

The grandfather-of-three from Newcastle, was rushed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Gateshead but died shortly afterwards despite attempts to save him.
His actions meant that the 46 passengers on board suffered no injuries, with only one other passenger taken to hospital and another seen by paramedics at the scene.
The coach, which had adults and children on board, was travelling from Newcastle to Ambleside for a three-day holiday over the bank holiday weekend.
Today his family said they had lost a dad, grandad and friend, while his employers Bells Coaches have commended Bill, who worked for the company for 16 years, for his bravery.
Managing director Michael Bell said: “Bill’s actions while he was suffering his heart attack were heroic — he drove the bus away from the carriageway, brought it to a halt and stopped the engine — putting the safety of his passengers before his own.
“We will always be incredibly proud of Bill for what he did that day, and for the way he represented our business every day he worked for us.”
Floral tributes still mark the spot where the accident happened and Mr Craven’s work colleagues described him as a kind and thoughtful man, who lived for his family. Mr Craven’s funeral was held on Thursday at West Road Crematorium Chapel. His son Brian (44) said: “He was my best friend and we’ll miss him. He was an experienced driver and he loved meeting new people and taking them to new places. He was caring, polite and had integrity.”
He added: “What I thought was very touching, was a lady on the bus who helped him came to his funeral to express her condolence. She introduced herself to me. It was a lovely thing for a stranger to do.”
Mr Bell added: “We were privileged to have Bill work for us for over sixteen years. Throughout that time, he was a first-class colleague and employee. The numerous messages of condolence that we have received since he died, are testament to the high esteem in which he was held by customers and other coach operators alike. They have highlighted Bill’s professionalism, kindness and thoughtfulness to others.”
Mr Craven leaves behind his partner, a son, two step-children and three grandchildren. — Daily Mail.

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