Essex

Bus Attacked in Billericay

Police Praise Driver for Calm Reaction

Police have praised a Basildon bus driver for his calm reaction when his bus was attacked in Billericay.

Vandals are believed to have thrown stones or fired a pellet gun at First Essex service 100 on Tuesday, causing over a thousand pounds worth of repairs.

The driver was travelling on London Road, from Basildon, towards Chelmsford when he heard a loud bang, and stopped to assess what the problem was. It was then that he noticed three windows had been shattered.

The damage will cost £1,500 in glass and labour charges, and had the vehicle off the road awaiting repairs. None of the 25 passengers were injured in the incident.

A spokesperson for First in Essex said: "This isnt some light-hearted mischief " this is criminal damage, and there is no excuse for it. We encourage anyone with information on the incident to contact the police.

"First condemns in the strongest possible terms the actions of the people involved today " it is only through good fortune that anyone was not seriously hurt. This is not a victimless crime, however, as passengers are affected in other ways through the impact on services.

"The safety and security of our passengers and staff is paramount at all times, and we will not tolerate such behaviour.'

The 100 service runs from Chelmsford to Lakeside Shopping Centre in Thurrock, via Basildon bus station and Basildon hospital. It is a very popular and well-used route, with low-floor buses operating throughout the day, making it accessible for disabled people, and pushchairs.