Driver dies at wheel during coach trip in Germany

Dec 24 2009 by Sophie Doughty, The Journal

“I would like to thank the German police, Northumbria Police and the paramedics on the scene for the assistance in this tragic accident.”

The driver, accompanied by a colleague from Keith’s coaches were transporting their young passengers, who had been on a skiing trip in Austria when the accident happened. The crash left the youngsters stranded and Karlsruhe Police and the Red Cross had to find them accommodation for then night.

A spokesman for Karlsruhe Police said: “At midnight on Tuesday night the driver of a British bus had a heart attack and the bus came to the middle of the street and crashed a little.

“The 49-year-old driver was revived by a doctor at the scene. He was taken to hospital where he died within 60 minutes.

“42 persons from England had to stay over night here and the Red Cross found a place for them to sleep.” Mr Grimes said the company’s priority was now supporting the driver’s family and getting the passengers home safely.

He added: “At this time my main concern is with the safe return of the children to school that are currently on route to Calais with a fellow coach operator from Germany.

“I would also like to thank the Red Cross for their kind assistance in providing food, drink and bedding for the children.

“Our main concern is the safe return of the children and the needs of our driver’s family at this extremely tragic time.”