A TAUNTON head teacher has commended the brave actions of a group of pupils whose driver tragically died at the wheel of their school bus on Monday.

Herbert Robin Faulkner, 68, from Sampford Arundel, passed away after suffering a heart attack, shortly after children travelling to Ladymead Community School, boarded the coach in Burnshill Drive, Norton Fitzwarren.

His family have described him as 'a much loved husband, father and grandfather'.

It is understood Mr Faulkner had worked as a bus driver for Cooks Coaches in Wellington for a number of years.

Flowers have been laid by the pupils, at the roadside next to their bus stop.

Headteacher of Ladymead Community School, Mark Trusson said: "It is with great sadness that we learned of the untimely death of Robin Faulkner.

"I understand that Robin had a heart attack whilst the school bus was stationary - no pupils were in danger.

"I further understand that several of our pupils were outstanding in their response to this crisis in contacting the emergency services.

"The school has arranged for a trained councillor to meet with pupils who were on the bus.

"Ladymead Community School sends its condolences to Robin's family."

The funeral service will take place at Taunton Deane Crematorium on Thursday, January 18 at 11.30am.