RESIDENTS are pleading for a bus service to be saved after a number of attacks meant bosses were considering axing it.

Yesterday, the Echo reported how First Buses was thinking about stopping the 27 bus from Southend to Canvey as there had been three recorded attack in the space of two weeks, including yobs smashing windows and an assault on a driver.

However residents have called for the bus service to be saved.

Gary Shrimpton, 34, was one of the passengers on a No. 27 bus when one of the incidents took place, said: “I really worry that First Bus could potentially stop the service to and from the island.

“I live in Southend but use it very regularly as my family and girlfriend all live on Canvey.

“I can completely understand if they want to do that, because the assets that are the buses need protecting and so on, but truth be told the route is a lifeline for many people.

“I really hope through raising awareness we can help prevent people like this causing so much damage and fear.”

The operations manager of First Bus stated he was in talks with police to apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the disgraceful attacks.

Jay Blissett, Canvey councillor for West Ward, thought it was unnecessary to reduce the No. 27 and blamed the actions of those involved.

She added: “I don’t think people would cope without it. It would be really bad for the island as the 27 goes right the way through.

“I can understand it must cost the bus company a lot of money when these things happen but to stop the bus service is letting them win - we can’t let these youngsters run riot.

“I have seen them all hanging around at Rio Bingo which is on Furtherwick Road, where one of the attacks happened.

“I don’t see that stopping the bus will stop the problem. We need to stop the kids.”

Barry Campagna, mayor of Canvey, said: “I don’t think the buses should be reduced if it’s going to affect people getting to work or appointments.

“Again, there is a lack of police so they think they can get away with it.

“It’s unacceptable behaviour and it needs to be stopped. Cancelling the bus is something I hope wouldn’t happen, but then we also have got to think of passenger safety.

“I’m hoping it’s not an excuse to stop the bus service as we had bus routes cancelled before.

“The people are paying for a service and they expect it to be there. It shouldn’t be affected because of anti-social behaviour.

“There is a meeting with the police commissioner on December 3 and I will be bringing it up with him to find out what he suggests.”