Unaware of the explosions on the Underground network, the driver of the number 30 bus, George Psaradakis, could not understand what was holding up the roads and overcrowding buses that morning in 2005.

He made a diversion and announced the change to passengers, advising those whose destinations were nearby that they would be better off walking.

Between 30 and 50 stepped off, oblivious to the possibility that their lives could have been saved by doing so.

Giving evidence, he said: "Lots of people got off the bus... I pulled away slowly, at crawling speed. When I was near (two) traffic officers I opened my window and called them.

"I said to them 'what is the name of this place?'... They said Tavistock Square, so I thanked them and tried to call my garage and then - bang. The explosion."