Buses safety swoop shocker

And police safety experts believe bus companies struggling to stave off competition and win contracts for services following deregulation are gambling with passenger safety.

Specialist officers and Ministry of Transport officials carried out spot checks on buses including services used to take children to schools across Blackburn.

And of the 19 vehicles stopped 16 were forced off the road after serious safety faults were found.

The buses were taken to Blackburn Transport's Intack depot for rigorous MOT style examinations.

Several firms are now facing prosecution in the wake of the surprise swoops across the borough.

One bus, used to take children to St Wilfrid's High School from Darwen, had faulty brakes and steering and a loose front axle. All the buses found with faults will have to be repaired and then go through a further MOT test before being allowed back into service.

PC Tim Hogan, of the traffic support group, said: "It would be fair to say the figures are horrifying.

"One bus was so bad it will not be leaving the garage unless it is towed out of here."

PC Hogan added: "We stopped buses used for school routes because we are particularly concerned about the safety of children.

"Since deregulation there has been an increase in competition. We are concerned because the increase in competition could mean the safety of buses may be compromised.

"The easiest way to save money for various operators would be to cut back on maintenance and repairs."

He added: "What is really worrying is that some of these vehicles carry up to 56 passengers. It seems operators are not taking their responsibilities to the public seriously.

"There is a serious problem in Blackburn that will have to be tackled urgently."

The police are planning another swoop in East Lancashire early in the New Year.

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