THE last bus between Kidderminster and Birmingham is facing severe cutbacks - causing outrage among passengers already hit by several cuts to district services.

The 192 between Kidderminster and Birmingham, via Blakedown, could be heavily reduced from the end of this month unless another operator can be found.

It would mean the service - the last to connect Kidderminster to Birmingham - would serve Wyre Forest pupils who attend school in Hagley but run at a reduced frequency during the day.

Bus firm First - criticised for withdrawing a number of Wyre Forest services - said cutting back the 192 was a "purely commercial decision based on the fact that it isn't making any money".

Spokesman, David Maciejewski, said: "It is a non-profit service and, obviously, we are a profit-making private company. The service we operate in the day will not run in its current form."

The move was met with disgust by passengers. Bewdley resident, Linda Ross, said the 192 - which leaves Kidderminster bus station 15 times a day during the week - was vital for Wyre Forest people.

The Cherry Close, Bewdley resident, who has started a petition opposing the move, said: "This bus service is a lifeline.

"It enables many to travel to work and would have a detrimental effect on their ability to hold down a job. It also connects with the 292 service to Bewdley, Far Forest and Cleobury Mortimer."

Councillors also condemned First's decision. Worcestershire county councillor for Cookley, Wolverley and Wribbenhall, Liz Davies, said: "The effect on the quality of life for many people is immeasurable.

"There is no public service element to the bus service at all."

Hurcott county councillor, Fran Oborski, called the move "absolutely appalling".

She said: "There are people who really need that bus to go to work or visit relatives during the day. I almost despair.

"I just think there is no understanding or interest in trying to keep the area with reasonable public transport."

The service is contracted out to First by Worcestershire County Council.

Principal customer services officer at the council, Ken Radbourne, said the route suffered because passengers at 192 stops, such as Halesowen and Quinton, used more frequent services run by Travel West Midlands.

The direct line train from Kidderminster was also a major factor in the changes, set to be imposed from May 29, he said.

Mr Radbourne, added however: "We are still very much in the early stages of seeing what form of replacement can be provided."