A HERO bus driver last night thanked the people who praised him for saving lives.

Darren Spivey was back at home in Huddersfield nursing neck and back injuries after treatment at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.

He was at the wheel of a singledeck bus which crashed into a wall in Far Dene, Highburton, on Thursday morning.

But it is believed the brakes may have failed and the bus could have careered down the steep hill and into busy Penistone Road at the height of rush hour.

Mr Spivey, 45, who has previously been praised for helping passengers after a bus caught fire, has been overwhelmed by the support for his actions.

In a statement through bus company Centrebus, he said: “I would like to thank all the people who have been in touch.

“Many have contacted the bus company to offer their thanks and others passed on messages of support at the scene of the crash.”

Mr Spivey was treated by paramedics in his seat as firefighters worked to free him.

Centrebus officials, who are investigating the crash with police, said Mr Spivey had worked for the company for some time.

Passengers and rescuers who went to the scene were united in singing his praises.

Mum-of-three Elisa Robinson, 32, of Kirkburton, was sitting behind the driver on the 81 service when the bus struck the wall.

Ms Robinson, who sprained her back in the crash, said: “He was absolutely fantastic.