First Bus statement after 'reckless' attack in Bierley

That is the message from bus company First following a horrifying attack where offenders blocked the road and threw bricks at the vehicle.

The Bradford South Neighbourhood Policing Team said it had received calls from First raising the alarm about youths causing damage to buses in the Bierley area.

The latest incident unfolded on the evening of August 24 on Burnham Avenue.

The bus out of service on Burnham Avenue (Image: First Bus)

It has been a recurring problem over the years and, at some points, First was forced to boycott the area in the face of ongoing vandalism.

Mohammed Raja, operations manager of First Bus in Bradford, said: “This action was clearly premeditated and is undeniably reckless and unacceptable.

“The bus was not in service at the time and fortunately no customers were on board. We are relieved that our driver was unhurt and he acted calmly and professionally in handling this situation by alerting the depot and police.

“The safety of our staff and customers is our highest priority and we are working closely with the police to investigate this incident including the use of on board CCTV footage to help identify the individuals involved.

“Such attacks can have very serious consequences and we would encourage anyone with information to contact the police or get in touch with Crimestoppers.”

He added: “Acts of vandalism cause significant interference to our timetabling arrangements and our service could be withdrawn for the rest of the day and evening or diverted away from the area concerned, disrupting the plans of customers who wish to make their regular journeys.

“Whilst every effort is made to get our vehicle back on the road the next day, sometimes it may be missing from service.”  

A spokesperson for the Bradford South Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "We have recently received calls from First Bus informing us of youths causing damage to buses in the Bierley area.

"The latest occurrence was on Thursday, August 24, at 11.30pm on Burnham Avenue, where barriers were put across the road to block the bus. Bricks were then thrown at the bus causing damage to nine windows.

"Thankfully the bus was out of service and on its way back to the depot, the driver got away without injury.

"This type of behaviour is totally unacceptable and enquires are ongoing to identify the offender."

Anyone in the area at the time who is able to provide the police with any information should ring 101 or report it online quoting crime reference number 13230473366.