TWO bus firms operating in Redditch will be going head to head in direct competition with each other from next Monday, writes Becky Procter.

Pete's Travel will begin running the popular 57/58 Matchborough circular route in competition with the town's leading bus operator, First Midland Red.

The news comes just three months after Pete's Travel moved into the town to take over a number of routes axed by First Midland Red - but this is the first time the two firms will compete for customers.

Pete's Travel is also in conflict with Redditch Council after refusing to join its concessionary fare scheme and accept pensioner and disabled bus passes.