A BUS service has been withdrawn from the Kingsway area of Heysham after youths threw rocks, stones and eggs at the bus The Citizen can exclusively reveal.

Lancaster Bus and Coach say they were left with no option but to withdraw the service from Kingsway following three reported incidents last week.

The number 5 from Carnforth to Overton was re-instated on Tuesday night with an inspector on board plus police back up and the company have adapted a wait-and-see policy.

Said John Howard of the County Council: "We had three reported incidents in the evenings last week and withdrew the service. We put it back on Tuesday night with an inspector and so far it's been OK. The youths waited for the bus to slow down on Sugham Lane and then started to throw missiles which chipped the windows.

We have to ensure the safety of passengers and so withdrew the service."

Ward councillor Philip Lee said he was dismayed that youths in the area were acting so recklessly.

He said: "The company were right to stop the bus service at Kingsway if they were getting missiles thrown at them. I'd like to find out who the culprits were to give them a dressing down and make them aware of the recklessness of their actions. This sort of behaviour is dangerous and lives could be at risk. When services are withdrawn it's the elderly and mother with young children who usually suffer."

Six months ago a brick was thrown through the window of a bus in Heysham and Cllr Geoff Knight believes the latest incidents suggest that youths are once again causing trouble.

He said: "We do have a juvenile nuisance problem in Heysham as more houses are built without sufficient play areas and facilities. I'd like to see the county councillor for this area doing more in that department."

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