Bus driver on death charge

A Burntwood bus driver accused of causing the death of a pensioner killed at Walsall station appeared in court today.

John Connolly, aged 62, of Darwin Close, appeared at Walsall Magistrates Court following last July’s accident, in which pedestrian Jean Crump died.

His case was sent straight to Wolverhampton Crown Court, where a plea and management hearing will be held on September 8.

Connolly looked sombre during his brief appearence in court and had to be comforted by family on his way out.

Mrs Crump, who was 65 and who lived at Lime Avenue in Bentley, suffered multiple injuries in the accident. Six other people were also injured when the bus hit two pedestrians, a shelter and another bus.

An inquest has been opened and will resume once the court case has been completed.