A BUS driver who has suffered a series of attacks over a 17-year career has received a surprise goodwill gift in the post.

As revealed by the Echo, Kevin Sanderson, 57, from Poole, has been subjected to more than half a dozen horrific assaults during his time with Wilts & Dorset, the worst of which was being beaten up at Poole bus station in 1995.

He was left in a coma and did not work again for 18 months.

Earlier this month, he was assaulted in Turlin Moor by yobs who threw bricks and stones at him.

But, after reading his story, a Portsmouth man, signing his name Alan Palmer, sent a letter to the bus company for Kevin, containing £160.

Wife Sue said: “He just said he was touched to read the story and would the Wilts & Dorset manager please pass the enclosed £160 onto the driver and his family, as it may help them. Kevin said it had restored his faith in human nature. I was very touched by it, it made me shed a few tears, it was very kind.

“I don’t know who this guy is, it could have been his pension or something.”

Meanwhile, Mrs Sanderson has praised the support her husband has received on the Echo website.

One called Mr Sanderson a “very brave man”, while another said Wilts & Dorset should “take pride in such a loyal driver”.

A comment even came from Brisbane, Australia, which said: “Seven attacks in 17 years? The bloke deserves a medal, or a desk job!”

Mr Sanderson’s problems have now been taken up by the RMT union, which will bring the issue to a national meeting in June.