STUNNED passengers looked on in amazement after a furry fare dodger boarded a More bus in Poole and settled down in a seat beside them.

Border terrier Monty hitched a lift after slipping his lead at Branksome and walking to Poole Park Gates alone. When he jumped on board, driver Nigel Corrigan assumed he was accompanied.

But, after asking customers if they owned Monty, no-one claimed him and concerned Nigel checked his collar. On finding a phone number, he rang Monty’s relieved owners.

The Chanoch family from Alum Chine were relieved to hear that mischievous Monty was in safe hands and rushed to be reunited with him.

As a mark of their gratitude they sent a letter of thanks to Nigel who was given a More Hero award.

Monty’s owners, sisters Serena and Amy Chanoch, attended the presentation ceremony. Assistant operations manager Paul Weller handed over gift vouchers to Nigel and a special certificate in recognition of his kindness.

Nigel said: “Thankfully the passengers on board the bus were very encouraging and wanted Monty reunited with his family straight away. Otherwise we would have had to look after him until we reached the end of the route.”

The More Hero campaign was launched earlier this year to encourage More bus customers to nominate any of the company’s 280 drivers for the monthly award.

To find out more, visit morebus.co.uk/morehero.