Essex

Bus Drivers Help Heart Attack Victim

Trainee and Mentor Honoured with Superstar Award

Two drivers from Chelmsford have been rewarded for helping an elderly passenger who collapsed.

Mark Payne as was working as a mentor with trainee driver Phillip Douglas in December of last year when a passenger suffered a heart attack as she was deboarding the bus.

The woman " who, along with her husband, does not wish to be named " suffers from unstable angina. The condition is so serious a blood clot can partially obstruct a coronary artery, technically leading to a heart attack in severe cases. Unlike the stable version of the condition, unstable angina often occurs at rest and can be unpredictable.

The woman was taken ill as she was getting off the 45 bus, near her home in Writtle " and her husband said the drivers could not have been more helpful.

He said "They assisted us in moving my wife from a precarious position at the exit to the bus to a nearby point where she could sit.

"They offered to call an ambulance for her, and they did not leave until they were satisfied that they could do no more. Both gentlemen were most considerate and helpful " there was no impatience, they really put her needs first.

"I am very grateful to them both for all of their help and care.'

Mr Douglas of Brentwood, who joined the company last October, Mr Payne of Maldon said they thought nothing of helping the couple, and just did what they hoped anyone else would do in their position. Mr Payne said he thought no more of the incident until the drivers met the elderly Writtle couple again the following night, on the same bus.

He said: "The elderly gentleman asked us if we would know who the two drivers who had helped him and his wife the previous evening. As chance would have it, we did know " because it was us.'

Lee Berry, Operations Manager, for First Essex, said: "I am very proud of Phil and Mark for their selfless actions in helping this elderly couple " they really thought nothing of going beyond the call of duty.'

"Our drivers arent often thrown into situations like this, so I am pleased that they reacted so calmly and professionally, and extend my own thanks to them.'

Every month one prized employee has gone beyond the call of duty is chosen from nominations by colleagues and customers. Each month's winner receives £100 High Street store shopping vouchers in recognition of their contribution to the business and service to customers. Customers with a successful nomination with themselves a months free travel across Essex.

Nomination forms are available on board buses, in travel shops " or can be completed online at www.firstgroup.com/superstars.