Driver for Northants bus operator wins recognition for response to medical emergency

A driver from Northamptonshire bus operator, Stagecoach Midlands, has been recognised for his calm and compassion in responding to a medical emergency, after he found a man lying on the road in front of his bus.

Pat Friar noticed the man had collapsed and acted quickly to position his bus to block the road and protect the man from other vehicles.

Then, when Pat realised that the man’s heart had stopped beating, he began to administer CPR and continued for around 25 minutes until a nurse arrived on the scene with a defibrillator. His daughter, who is a paramedic, had shown him how to perform CPR just four months earlier.

Zoe Stilgoe, Duty Manager at Stagecoach’s Leamington depot, said: “It’s moments like these that remind us that our job is about much more than driving a bus. Pat’s quick actions, professionalism and genuine care for a passenger in need were outstanding and are a credit to both himself and the company. He is now encouraging other members of the team to learn CPR.”

Mark Whitelocks, Managing Director of Stagecoach Midlands, added: “I am very proud and grateful for Pat’s quick thinking in a difficult situation, This really demonstrates the vital role that bus drivers play in our region.

“Buses are the lifeblood of our communities, providing a lifeline for many by keeping people moving. As a bus driver, you ensure people can access work, education, essential services, and visit their friends and family. Without the dedication of our drivers, engineers, presentation and support teams, none of this would be possible.”