THUGS who disrupt public transport services in York face being banned from buses across the UK under a campaign launched today.

Bosses at bus company First have joined forces with York Police to crack down on yobs who cause thousands of pounds of damage to their vehicles each year.

The "Bus STOP Bullies" campaign has seen all buses fitted with CCTV cameras, and rewards of £100 put up for witnesses who help the company prosecute culprits.

Drivers have received police training on how to make written statements and record witness details about incidents.

Those convicted of an offence will be banned from all First services across the UK.

Peter Edwards, of First, in York, said: "Our staff are entitled to perform their duties without the risk of injury or intimidation and our customers have a right to expect safety, comfort and courtesy at all times.

"The 'Bus STOP bullies' scheme sends out the very clear message that this yobbish behaviour will not be tolerated and that prosecutions will be pursued."

Vandalism on buses is on the increase, with 42 incidents already recorded this year, compared with a total of 67 in 2003.

More than £16,000 of window glass was replaced last year after attacks on vehicles.

The campaign follows a string of incidents in Chapelfields where buses were attacked with stones, a wrench and other missiles. Services were temporarily rerouted as a safety measure.

PC Claire Hudson, who spearheaded the scheme, said: "People should be able to travel around in safety and without fear and that is exactly what this scheme is designed to bring about."

Roy Tanner, First's accident investigation manager, said some youngsters "get their kicks" from hurling missiles at buses and behaving badly while travelling.

Chief Superintendent Tim Madgwick, of York Police, said: "This is another valuable string to policing in York and a commendable example of organisations coming together to accomplish a common goal."

Jane Mowat, of Safer York Partnership, urged the public to help the police rid buses of "miscreants" by providing information and help make travelling safer for everyone.

Updated: 12:12 Thursday, June 17, 2004