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.
“If it hadn’t been for the driver a number of people would have died.
“He shouted: ‘I’m sorry. The brakes have gone’. He was apologetic to us but he saved everyone’s life.
“If he hadn’t done what he did by steering into the wall he would have driven into Penistone Road.
“The guy deserves a medal, ” added Mrs Robinson, who was on her way to work at Whitegates in Huddersfield.
“It was the scariest experience of my life.
“He was a hero, definitely. If I could see him again I’d shake his hand.”
Watch commander Andy Blackburn, of Huddersfield Fire Station, led 20 rescuers at the scene of Thursday’s crash and has also hailed the driver.
He said: “This could have been much worse if it hadn’t been for the quick action of the driver.
“This is a steep road and if the brakes have failed and he has taken action to avoid ploughing into a main road during rush hour, he has averted a major tragedy.”
