THE battle to stop vandalism and anti-social behaviour on Redditch buses has led to a number of agencies joining forces to blitz the problem.

Redditch Council and bus operator First Midland Red will work together with police on long-term initiatives, including a new reporting policy on incidents.

Drivers are to undergo safety and communication skills training by police.

And the council has introduced a landscaping programme to cut back trees and bushes where vandals often hide.

Earlier this year, uniformed and undercover officers travelled on buses to routine calls in an operation to stop assaults on drivers.

Pc Stan Baker, of Redditch police, said: "We want the bus company to provide us with more details and report every incident as soon as possible so we can build up a profile of offences.

"We'll also be working with new and current drivers to provide training in communication skills and safety."

Redditch Council has been drafted in to look at landscaping around bus lanes, which are often isolated.

Pc Baker said: "We're looking to cut bushes and trees back to create more light and stop people hiding in them."

He added: "We would also appeal to anybody who witnesses any incidents on the buses to contact us and provide us with details."

First Midland Red commercial manager Austin Birks said the company welcomed the move.

The firm hoped it would go a long way to easing significant welfare concerns of drivers.

Mr Birks said assaults, vandalism and anti-social behaviour on buses had prompted many drivers to leave the company.

He said: "It will overcome people's concerns about their personal safety on journeys.

"They will be encouraged by these measures."

Mr Birks added: "I hope this will raise awareness that public services need the help and support of everybody.

"This will benefit the whole community."