Brighton coachman saved lives
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BRIGHTON coach company manager Mathew Varty, of Taylor Coaches, saved lives by his skilful handling of his coach after it had been struck by a lorry, an inquiry at Dumfries was told this week. But Mr Varty and nine passengers were killed in the crash—the worst ever bus accident in Scotland—which was on A74 near Beattock on June 16.
The lorry driver involved was cleared of causing death by dangerous driving, but was fined £50 for careless driving (CM September 26).
The lorry had crossed the central reservation and crashed into the coach on the opposite carriageway.
A passenger in the coach, told the inquiry : "I am convinced that the driver took whatever evasive action he could. Had he steered to the left I feel the coach might have overturned and there would have been a bigger tragedy than there was."