A PREGNANT mum who claimed she was told to get off a bus with her two-year-old daughter -- even though there was standing room -- has praised First Bus for the way the firm handled her complaint.

Louisa Nowrie, who lives on the Riverside Bank estate in Radcliffe, argued with the driver of a 524 First Bus near Radcliffe Metrolink Station, to be allowed to travel.

The 26-year-old explained: "Because Holly was in a buggy, I wanted to stand and keep my hand on the buggy.

"I could not fold it because I recently had an operation, which I explained to the driver," said Louisa, who is three months pregnant.

"It clearly states that there is standing room for 22 people. There was no-one else standing. The driver held up the bus for 30 minutes, refusing to move unless I got off the bus."

Mother and daughter were finally allowed to travel.

A spokesman for the bus company said the buggy posed a safety hazard by blocking the aisle.

He said that the driver was experienced and well respected, and a representative from First Bus would visit Louisa. A letter of explanation was also sent off.

The spokesman added: "The last think we want to do is upset a customer, but health and safety is our chief concern and has to come first."

Louisa said she was pleased that a representative from First Bus had personally come to see her.

"It reflects well on their customer services and I am happy with the way they dealt with my complaint, although I did point out I did not agree with everything the bus driver had said," she concluded.