Bus crash boy is awake and talking

11:40am Wednesday 20th August 2008

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THE eight-year-old boy who survived the bus crash which claimed the life of his schoolfriend Ashley Whiteway is making good progress in hospital.

Dean Harle is set to remain in Frenchay Hospital, in Bristol, for up to six weeks as he recovers from serious head injuries.

He was lucky to escape with his life after he and six-year-old Ashley were struck by a double-decker bus in Westlea Drive on August 7.

The pals had run across the road behind a parked single-deck bus unaware of the Stagecoach bus passing behind it.

Ashley was thrown under the bus and it is believed he died instantly.

Dean was thrown into the road and was given first aid hospital assistant June Pask, who was passing.

Wiltshire Police confirmed last week that Dean had been brought out of a medically induced coma and was with his family at Frenchay Hospital.

The Advertiser understands that the little boy has not yet been told of his friend’s death for fear it may hinder his progress.

Police spokesman Martin Dunscombe said: “Dean Harle is still in hospital where he is expected to stay for some time while he makes a recovery.

“He is sitting up and is talking with his family, and looks to be making positive progress.”

Dean will not attend Ashley’s funeral, which will be held at noon tomorrow at Kingsdown Crematorium.

The youngster’s parents Louise and David and stepfather Barry have asked that Ashley’s friends wear bright colours in tribute to their lively little boy.

Ashley’s wake will be held at Toothill Community Centre where the youngster would enjoy a kickabout with friends and staff.

The centre has been made available for free in tribute to Ashley’s popularity in the community where his cheeky grin was adored by many.

Flowers for the service were ordered yesterday using some of the £400 raised by Toothill residents as part of a collection by community centre staff and Toothill village centre’s One Stop shop.