by Keith Hunt

A bus driver who ran over a man after he complained about damage to his truck has been jailed for seven-and-a-half years.

Christopher Eggleton, 45, was convicted of manslaughter in a unanimous verdict. He was also banned from driving for seven years.

Martin Barlow, 30, went under the wheels of the six-and-a-half tonne single decker bus just metres from his home in Catherine Street, Rochester, on April 3 last year.

He suffered horrendous injuries as his body was carried for 435 metres to Dorrit Way, near the junction of Carlton Close.

Maidstone Crown Court heard how Mr Barlow had walked into the road to stop the bus and talk to the driver about damage previously caused to his beloved Mitsubishi Trojan pick-up truck.

After the tragedy, Eggleton, of Dale Street, Chatham, returned to his depot in Gillingham and told cleaners: "I think I have just killed someone."

He denied manslaughter and an alternative charge of causing death by dangerous driving. He admitted causing death by careless driving.

The judge, Mr Justice Akenhead, told Eggleton: "This is a serious case of reckless driving by a bus driver who should have known better.

"Whatever prison sentence I pass will not ease the pain and suffering of Martin's family and friends."