"BLAKEY" is set to go back on York buses as transport operator First reintroduces inspectors to the city centre.

The company, which is based in James Street, says it plans to bring a dedicated customer service team into York to help drivers deliver an even better operation. But chiefs at the firm said passengers need not worry about the possibility of Blakey, the moaning inspector from the hit comedy show On The Buses, rearing his head - as times have changed.

The team of four, which starts work this week, will be on hand for customers and drivers during the bus company's key hours and during early mornings and evenings as required.

The customer service team has been chosen because it members combine both experience of driving and inspecting.

Peter Edwards, commercial director at First, said: "When you say bus inspector to anybody they immediately conjure up the image of Blakey from the 1970s TV series On The Buses, but times have really changed.

"The primary function of this team is to be on hand to assist customers and to help the drivers deliver an even better service.

"While their presence will be of fairly obvious benefit to visitors unfamiliar with the city, this team will be a valuable source of information and help to our own residents.

"The idea is for them to be flexible and to be where they can be of most help. There, they will be able to bring their considerable experience to bear.

"This is just one more way that we've transformed bus travel in York over the past three years."

Updated: 14:37 Tuesday, August 17, 2004