Heroic bus driver receives commendation after saving stab victim’s life in Barking

A heroic bus driver told how she helped to save a stab victim’s life after he was set upon by street thugs during rush hour.

Anoushka Holmes, 31, was driving a double decker when she spotted two yobs attacking their victim in the middle of Movers Lane, Barking.

The cool-headed driver sounded her horn to ward off the knife thugs then let the blood-soaked man in his twenties get on the EL2 bus.

He collapsed in front of horrified passengers and an off-duty firefighter, Mark Triphook, gave him first-aid then called for back up.

His Barking colleagues sent a fire crew while medics made their way to the scene of the stabbing.

The man, who had been knifed 10 times, was treated by a second firefighter then taken to hospital. He has since recovered.

Yesterday, Anoushka and Mark received Met police commendations for their self-control and heroism.

Anoushka, of Thurrock, Essex, said: “I told the man to get on the bus. His face and body were covered in blood.

“Passengers were shocked but I dealt with it in a calm manner. You have to get on with it. Receiving the commendation is brilliant.”

The man was attacked at around 6pm on December 7 last year.

Two men were subsequently arrested but could not prosecuted due to lack of evidence.

Mark, 52, said: “It is nice to be recognised by the authorities.

“The bus driver deserves more than I do - Being a fireman, I am used to that sort of this.”

A Met police spokesman said: “Both of these people acted with self-control and a level of calm that may have prevented this very serious assault from becoming a murder inquiry.”

Barking and Dagenham borough commander Andrew Ewing praised the pair and work colleagues after they were presented police commendations at Dagenham and Redbridge Football Club in Victoria Road, Dagenham.

He said: “I’m absolutely astonished by the stories I have heard this afternoon. Everybody on the stage are utter and complete heroes.”