Police were investigating today after someone released the handbrake of a parked bus, sending it smashing into a pub in a packed city centre street.

Inspector Becky Newman of Brighton police said the incident in West Street could easily have killed people as they emerged from night clubs early on Sunday.

The driver left his bus outside Yates's Wine Lodge at 2.25am to help other drivers take passengers on board.

Meanwhile someone opened the driver's window of the vehicle and released the brake.

The bus hurtled down West Street and veered across the road, then crashed into the front of Wetherspoons bar.

Witnesses heard screams as pedestrians scattered to avoid the runaway bus.

Two employees inside Wetherspoons were shocked but unhurt. No one was on board the bus but it and the pub were badly damaged.

Inspector Newman said today: "This was absolute madness - someone could easily have been killed or badly injured.

"It is pure luck that the damage caused was just to the bus and the wine bar.

"The streets were packed at the time. Someone must have seen the person who did this or know who it was. We ask that they come forward and tell us what they know.

"This wasn't a joke - it could have been a murder."

Roger French, managing director of the Brighton and Hove Bus and Coach Company, said the vehicle could have ended up on the beach.

He said there would be an inquiry to see if any safety improvements could be made.

Police scenes of crime officers were today examining the bus for traces of the offender.

Witnesses should call Sussex Police on 0845 6070999.