ANGRY Droitwich residents have bombarded a tenants' association phone lines with complaints about bus service cutbacks.

Sheila Neary, spokesman for the Droitwich branch of Wychavon Tenants Association, is calling on First Midland Red to reconsider the cuts - especially the abolition of the number 19 route.

"Everyone is really angry and shocked that First Midland Red has announced such cutbacks and it's left a lot of people really isolated," she said.

"The past few days the telephone has been like the White House it's been so busy. A lot of people are very upset."

She said the organisation, which represents 3,000 people in the town, has written to First Midland Red this week to outline the fears of residents.

"The number 19 has affected many families with pushchairs and prams and many elderly people," she added.

The route includes the Meadows Estate and passes through Roberson Close, Primsland Way, Cockshute Hill and Tagwell Road, plus three warden-controlled areas.

"We do not expect the number 19 to be installed back to how it was, but even if it is a curtailed service it would help many."

Last week the bus company announced the changes, saying decisions were made due to worries over demand, costs and staffing.

In last week's Evening News, Droitwich town councillor John Cook warned the bus changes would cause serious problems for residents, especially the number 19.

Worcestershire County Council's environment and sustainability panel yesterday began a scrutiny exercise on bus services throughout the county.

No one from First Midland Red was available for comment when the Evening News went to press.