Tribute paid to bus driver who died in Bradford Interchange

First Bus driver Stephen Addai suffered a medical episode at the station last Friday (December 22).

A nurse attempted CPR before the ambulance service arrived but unfortunately, Stephen did not survive.

Stephen Addai worked for First Bus (Image: UGC)First told the Telegraph & Argus everyone at the bus company in West Yorkshire is "shocked" by the "sudden and tragic loss".

Councillor Taj Salam, also a bus driver and branch secretary for the Unite Union, described his colleague as a "jolly" and "well-mannered" person.

"We knew him really well. He was a very close member of the driving community," he said.

"A lot of people saw him that day, parking his car, clocking on, and catching the staff bus to the Interchange. On that short journey, he said hello to so many people including myself.

"He was in such a jolly and festive mood. He was sitting on the chairs in front of the stand waiting to go on his bus.

"For us to be informed that he had suffered a medical episode 20 minutes after we saw him, it was a huge shock.

"Luckily there was a nurse in the vicinity and when she saw his condition, she came to his aid and gave him CPR while the paramedics and ambulance were arriving.

"We would like to thank her for taking that measure. The ambulance service came within six minutes but unfortunately, he did not survive."

A memorial has been set up for Stephen at the First Bus Bradford depot where people have been paying their respects.

The memorial set up for Stephen (Image: UGC)Cllr Salam added: "It has shocked every single person here. He was a very well-mannered person. A person who would really make you feel warm."

A message to staff read: "We have tragically lost one of our beloved colleagues Mr Stephen Addai due to a medical event today.

"Our thoughts are with Stephen's family.

"Stephen was a much-loved colleague, and we appreciate that it will be an emotionally difficult time for all of us."

Tom Bridge, Operations Director of First Bus in West Yorkshire, said: “We’re all shocked at this sudden and tragic loss of one of our colleagues.

"Our thoughts and deepest sympathy are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

“The team at the Bradford depot are comforting each other and we are providing support.”