A SECURITY team is to patrol bus services and stations in Bury in a drive against anti-social behaviour.

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority (GMPTA) has provided £135,000 to fund the Patrol and Response scheme for its first year. Bus companies have already given their support to the initiative which follows the success of the Bus Station Response trial scheme at Bury, Bolton, Oldham and Rochdale bus stations, and the Safer Travel Officer scheme in North Manchester.

Four uniformed officers based at Bury Interchange will work with the police to target areas of the bus network where there are known to be problems. Councillor Roger Jones, chairman of the GMPTA, said: "I hope the new security officers will reassure passengers about safety on the bus network as well as helping to prevent incidents of crime, anti-social behaviour and vandalism.."

Passengers can report incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour, which do not require an emergency response, by calling the police on 0161 872 5050.