A BUS operator refuses to reinstate a loss-making service despite a public protest.
First Crosville withdrew the No 2 Ellesmere Port-Chester route as it was only used by a handful of passengers.
But, after a 160-name petition was sent to it, First said it was prepared to consider 'alternative arrangements' for passengers.
The No 2 service, which runs through Whitby, was scrapped on Monday, July 25.
Borough councillors Mike McCusker and Tony Walsh claim no notification was given to the relevant authorities, but First denies this.
Cllr McCusker (Ind, Whitby) said: 'First told us only 11 paying passengers use it every day. But what about pensioners with passes? Have they been counted?
'It's a nonsense to scrap a bus service when Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott is trying to encourage more people to use public transport.'
Cllr Walsh (Lab, Whitby) said the 160-name petition was drawn up after the drivers on the No 2 told passengers it was being scrapped.
He said: 'We are very unhappy with this decision, as it will inconvenience passengers.
'We support those who signed the petition and urge First to reconsider their decision.'
Paul De Santis, First's regional commercial director, said: 'We are amenable to meeting the councillors and looking at any suggestions for alternative arrangements in Ellesmere Port.
'But chances of us reinstating the No 2 service are zero. It was a huge loss-maker for us.
'We legally have to give eight weeks notice on withdrawing any service, but told Cheshire County Council two or three weeks before that.'
