Appeal after man causes bus to swerve by grabbing steering wheel: Harrogate
(HG2 - Sunday, 6 November, 2011)

Police in Harrogate are appealing for help to trace a man who caused a bus to swerve after he grabbed the wheel from the driver.

The incident happened near the Morrisons roundabout on Hookstone Chase, Starbeck, just before midnight on Friday 21 October 2011.

The man got on the Harrogate and District Travel bus in Leeds, which made its way to the town via Wetherby.

He allegedly became aggressive and abusive to the female bus driver when she had to make a detour at roadworks.

He pressed the emergency button to open the doors while the bus was negotiating the small roundabout at the junction of Hookstone Chase and Forest Lane.

He then grabbed the steering wheel on the approach to the Morrisons roundabout causing the driver to swerve.

He departed at the next stop.

PC Lynsey Ridout, of the Harrogate Safer Neighbourhood Team, said:

"This was an extremely dangerous and unpredictable act which upset the driver and the other passengers on the bus.

"Thankfully no-one was hurt in the incident.

"It is vital that this man is located so he can be interviewed by the police.

"If anyone recognises him from the CCTV image or has any information that could assist the investigation, please contact the police as soon as possible."

The offender is described as:

• a white male
• aged 25 to 30
• 5ft 8in to 5ft 10in tall
• medium build
• short light brown hair
• wearing a brown leather-style jacket and dark jeans

If you can help the police enquiries to locate the man, please contact PC 1961 Lynsey Ridout at Harrogate Police Station on 0845 60 60 24 7.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Police Force: North Yorkshire

Address:
Hookstone Chase
Starbeck
Harrogate
YORKSHIRE
HG2