Union seeks safety measures after bus driver death

Image source, Police Scotland

Image caption, Keith Rollinson died following an alleged assault in Elgin

A union has published a series of recommendations to help improve the safety of bus workers in Scotland after the death of a driver in Elgin.

Keith Rollinson, 58, died following an alleged assault at the town's bus station at the beginning of February.

A 15-year-old boy who cannot be named for legal reasons has since appeared in court charged with his murder. He made no plea and was remanded in custody.

Unite is urging the Scottish government to implement measures to discourage anti-social and violent behaviour on buses.

The union - which represents thousands of bus workers - has called for stronger legal protection for transport workers.

Panic buttons

It has written to First Minister Humza Yousaf asking him to support a road map to improve bus worker safety.

Recommendations include installing panic buttons and protective screens on all vehicles, increasing the presence of police or wardens on buses, ensuring CCTV is working on buses and at stations and removing services from problem areas.

Transport Scotland said abuse of transport staff was unacceptable and would not be tolerated.

It added that it was continuing to work with police and local authorities to tackle anti-social behaviour.