A SPECIAL bus that will serve the Sussex coast has been unveiled to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

The bus, which features the emblem of the Jubilee and is decked out in white, platinum and purple, will be seen regularly on Stagecoach South's Coastliner 700 route from Brighton to Worthing and Littlehampton.

The platinum colour represents the Queen's 70 years on the throne, with purple synonymous with royalty.

Managing director of Stagecoach South Edward Hodgson said: "The whole nation and our Commonwealth countries are gearing up for a big celebration in June, and we felt that it was important for us to honour this historic milestone within the communities we serve.

"We are therefore proud to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, with this special bus that will be used throughout the year on our local bus networks."

The bus will initially enter service at Worthing depot in West Sussex, before commencing a tour of Chichester and Portsmouth depots along the south coast later in the year.

Emma Munn, assistant operations manager for Stagecoach in Worthing, said: "This is such an historic moment, as it is the first time that any British monarch has attained 70 years on the throne.

"We hope that our customers and residents across the area will enjoy travelling on, and seeing, the Jubilee bus on the streets throughout the year."

The Jubilee bus is one of two completed by the bus company, with the second bus being launched at the company's Andover depot in Hampshire.

The Queen marked 70 years on the throne earlier this month and, in a statement for Accession Day, said: "It gives me pleasure to renew to you the pledge I gave in 1947 that my life will always be devoted to your service."

She said: "I remain eternally grateful for, and humbled by, the loyalty and affection that you continue to give me. And when, in the fullness of time, my son Charles becomes King, I know you will give him and his wife Camilla the same support that you have given me."

Have you got a story for us? Email news@theargus.co.uk or contact us here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

Sign up to our newsletter to get updates sent straight to your inbox.

You can also call us on 01273 021 400.