THE picture we publish today of a bus driver eating an apple as he drives past the scene of a fatal accident that occurred just days before is truly shocking.

The photograph was taken by the son of Fred Carter, who was found dead at the junction of St Aldate’s and Speedwell Street last month.

Fred is believed to have fallen through roadwork barriers before twice being struck by buses as he lay on the ground.

The picture shows a driver taking a corner with one hand on the wheel and other holding an apple.

Needless to say, he is no longer driving buses for Stagecoach.

Many would argue that eating or drinking at the wheel is a grey area.

People munch chocolate, sip from water bottles and even smoke at the wheel and are never pulled over.

What about sat nav systems? They are just as bad.

And then there is the use of mobile phones at the wheel — it has been illegal for years, but people still flout the ban.

However, when a driver is responsible for the lives of others — be it in a bus or a private vehicle — common sense has to come first.

It’s no use moaning when the police issue a fine for eating or drinking.

The simple fact is: if in doubt, don’t do it.