AN ACOCKS Green-based bus driver is in the running for an international safety prize after he stopped a robbery while driving his bus last year.
Muhammad Shahid Mahmood has been nominated by his depot colleagues for a National Express Group Values Award after bravely scaring away a thief.
While driving the number 5 between Birmingham and Solihull in September last year, Muhammad noticed something wrong ahead of him on Robin Hood Lane.
A man was attacking a female motorist and trying to take her mobile phone.
After safely securing his bus, Muhammad got out and shouted at the attacker to try and make him stop.
Muhammad, joined by a few of his customers, went to make sure the victim was OK and then called the police.
He then rejoined his bus and continued his route as normal.
Colleague Frank McNamee says: “There’s no doubt that Muhammad’s intervention during the robbery stopped the crime and made the perpetrator flee the scene.
“Despite this, Muhammad was very modest about his brave behaviour on that day.
“That didn’t surprise us at Acocks Green – he’s a very pleasant driver and he is very well liked at our garage.”
Muhammad has been driving buses from National Express’ busy Acocks Green garage for almost nine years.
He has already won a National Express Bus Safety award for his bravery and now he’s been put forward for the company’s international final.
He’ll find out whether he’s beaten National Express colleagues from Spain, Bahrain, America, Germany and across the UK at a gala evening at London’s UnderGlobe on Thursday, April 27.
