Quick thinking from a minibus driver en route to a Wingrave school saved eight schoolchildren from a vehicle fire.

Sakhy Badshah evacuated the children from his bus after noticing a burning smell, which soon after became an engine fire which spread through the vehicle.

Two fire engines were needed to extinguish the blaze in Winslow Road, which severely damaged the minibus.

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“We’re so grateful for Sakhy’s swift and calm action that ensured the safety of the children on the bus,” said Assistant Head Teacher at Wingrave Church of England School Janet Lee.

“Sakhy’s safeguarding skills are second to none and it’s incredibly reassuring to know how composed and well-trained he is in dealing with situations like this.”

Express Travel’s service records, safety interval checks and documentation for the vehicle were all checked and found to be complete and in good order, according to Buckinghamshire Council.

Unfortunately, with vehicle engine fires – which are thankfully rare – it is difficult to determine the exact mechanical fault, they said.

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Mr Badshah said: “I always check my vehicle before heading out and I know the company always carry out their checks and MOTs but you still have to be ready for the unexpected.

“That’s why I was able to react quickly when I smelt burning and immediately got the pupils safely off the vehicle.”

Cabinet Member for Transport Steven Broadbent has presented Mr Bahdshah with a ‘Proud of Bucks’ award.

Steven Broadbent said: “I’m delighted to be able to recognise Mr Badshah’s professionalism with this award. His prompt reaction to the unexpected turn of events that day helped to ensure the safety of the pupils in his charge.

“We work closely with all our school transport operators – in this instance Express Travel – to ensure that their staff are well trained and work to the highest standards, as exemplified here by Mr Badshah.”