Ryedale bus drivers are being put at risk by youths who are pelting their vehicles with missiles.

A gang of youngsters is terrorising bus drivers by throwing stones, bricks and pieces of concrete at buses and smashing windows as they approach the outskirts of Leeds.

Yorkshire Coastliner manager Brian Kneeshaw, based in Malton, said most drivers were terrified of travelling to Leeds.

"There have been a few occasions now when buses have been pelted with missiles and windows have been smashed," he said.

"On one occasion a piece of tarmac about six to seven inches across came through a window and nearly hit a driver. I shudder to think what might have happened if the driver or a passenger was hit by it; drivers should not have to work under these circumstances.

"The police have been told about the incidents, but they seem powerless to do anything. The kids involved just run off."

Mr Kneeshaw said he was concerned the incidents, in the Seacroft and York Road areas of Leeds, would put off potential new recruits.

"It is only a matter of time before someone gets hurt," he said.

Updated: 10:27 Wednesday, January 10, 2001