‘Well done for showing true leadership and supporting the driver in this case’ your views on a High Peak Buses incident
News that a High Peak Buses driver was investigated following an incident on the 61 service has really got you talking with a lot of praise going to the driver and the company.
A letter sent to the Advertiser stated a driver had been ‘disrespectful and demeaning’ to young teenage girls and a teenager was left in ‘significant distress’ as the driver made multiple comments under his breath regarding the young girl.
After going to High peak Buses for clarification we were told a teenager became verbally aggressive with the driver and there was also vaping on the bus which the driver tried to stop.
CCTV evidence backed up his claim and the bus company said the driver ‘ensured that all passengers were carried safely despite the challenging and hostile behaviour directed toward him’.
This story had more than 80 comments from readers - here’s what you had to say.
County Councillor Melandra Smith - Buxton North and East said: “Parents should take a lead here. Respect shouldn't be a bygone, and vaping on the bus is a silly and antisocial thing to do.
“People shouldn't feel frightened of turning up to work because they don't know what ridiculous situation they will be placed in, day to day.”
Diane Hardy praised the company and said: “Well done to the driver’s bosses for supporting throughout this horrible experience he had to endure, whilst just doing his job
“The parents of the teens should be grateful it has now been brought to their attention so they can take measures to educate their children about social behaviour.”
Simon Ayrton agreed and said: “Well done to High Peak Buses for showing true leadership and supporting the driver in this case.”
Bernard Mcmylor echoed this and said High Peak drivers are the best.
Guy Sankey said: “It's such a shame that bus drivers should be treated in such a shameful manner.
“They do a marvellous job. Well done to the driver for acting so professionally, and well done to the management for supporting him. It can be a very lonely place when someone complains about a driver.
“It feels like you are guilty unless you can prove your innocence.”
Matt Howes from High Peak Buses said: “Unfortunately, this is becoming a growing issue across the network of services we operate.
“Our drivers are dedicated to making a good impression and providing the best possible service, but they face challenges like this on a daily basis.
“Our drivers come to work every day to serve the public, getting passengers from point A to point B as professionally and safely as possible — and 99 per cent of the time, with a smile.
“Bus drivers are human beings and should not have to face abuse of any kind without cause.”
Paul Mlot added: “I've been working on the buses for 16 years, over 10 with High Peak buses.
“I just want to say that I've personally not had a problem with any of the school kids or students.
“All if not most are polite and say cheers when getting off.
“There's always going to be someone with an issue but we don't get any training. Just want to say thanks to the ones that are polite.”