THREE Brighton school buses are being stopped because of rowdy youngsters.

Brighton and Hove Bus Company is withdrawing the buses that take pupils from Moulsecoomb and Coldean to Patcham High School. It says some children have vandalised the double-deckers and accuses them of of smoking, dropping litter and damaging seats. There are no direct public bus services and today local councillor Francis Tonks joined the school's battle to keep the service going. Head teacher Liz Fletcher said: "It has taken us completely by surprise and we are very disappointed. We feel we've had a good working relationship with the bus company. "We've asked for a meeting with representatives from the company." Bus company managing director Roger French said: "We've given three months' notice to the council of the withdrawal of the service. "Buses have been delayed going on to other routes because of vandalism. However, we are going to submit another tender to run a service to the school which won't affect our other routes. "It's up to Brighton and Hove Council whether or not it keeps a service going."

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