Tributes pour in after beloved school bus driver from Thatcham dies, aged 76

Tributes have poured in for a beloved school bus driver from Thatcham who died on June 3, aged 76.

Dennis Bassindale is fondly remembered by many for driving hundreds of children and partygoers to schools and nights out across Thatcham and West Berkshire.

Born in Scunthorpe on November 9, 1948, Dennis moved to Frilsham with his parents when he was about six.

He later married his wife Ann and the couple spent the last 48 years living in Thatcham.

Dennis first completed school runs for Aldermaston Coaches, before joining Baileys Coaches in Hermitage in September 2009 where he drove children back and forth to schools in Newbury and Abingdon.

His daughter Sharon Bassindale said: “He spoke very fondly of his jobs on the coaches, particularly the jobs for those with additional needs.

“When they booked those trips, they always asked for Dennis.

“He particularly loved the job when he was driving the coach for them to the Paralympic Games in London.

“Not only did he enjoy it, but he was honoured and proud to be asked to do it.”

His family said Dennis would always ensure the schoolchildren in his care got home safely, sometimes deviating from his route to deliver them to their door when it was dark or raining.

“He was proud to serve others and always went above and beyond to help people, even the drunk clubbers when he was driving the Venom [nightclub, formerly in Newbury Leisure Park] bus,” Sharon added.

“It doesn’t matter where we go, there will be someone there that knows dad.

“We have been so touched by the people who have taken the time to track us down to send their best wishes, share their memories and comment on social media.”

Dennis leaves behind three daughters Sharon, Ruth and Claire and grandson Charlie.

A funeral service for Dennis will be held at West Berkshire Crematorium on Monday.

Donations for Thames Valley Air Ambulance are welcomed in his memory.

Visit https://dennisbassindale.muchloved.com/ to donate.