Coach driver's family pay tribute to 'a true gentleman'

The family of Jeremy Takel, the driver killed at Lee Mill in Ivybridge when his coach rolled forward into a hedge trapping him underneath, has paid tribute to him:

"The family of the late Jeremy Takel of Torquay, formally of Tiverton, would firstly like to thank the emergency services for their dedication and the assistance given to him at the scene of the accident, also the staff at Derriford Hospital, Plymouth when he arrived there.

"We would also like to send our sincere thanks to the people at Lee Mill, Plymouth for going to his aid, whilst waiting for the emergency services to attend and their kind support to the passengers received by them.

"We sincerely thank everyone for all the loving thoughts, cards and kind messages of sympathy received during this sad time.

"He will be dearly missed by all his family and friends.  He had been driving coaches for over 25 years and loved his job with a passion, trying his upmost that all his passengers had good holidays and trips.  He would go out of his way to help and assist people.  He was a true gentleman who was courteous at all times.

"For all enquiries regarding the funeral service please contact Walter H squires & Son. Tel (01884) 252556, or go to www.whsquires.co.uk/obituaries."

The incident happened on Thursday 18 April 2013 in the car park of the Famous Lee Mill.

The coach had been carrying passengers on a day excursion from Paignton. Mr Takel was taken to Derriford Hospital in Plymouth and died shortly after arrival.