A POLICE operation to stamp out attacks on Redditch bus drivers is to be stepped up after an incident occurred for the first time since it was launched.

Uniformed and undercover police officers have been travelling on the buses since April after a spate of attacks left bus drivers fearing for their safety and passengers frightened to travel.

No incidents had happened until 8pm on Bank Holiday Monday, when a brick was thrown through a bus window in Church Hill.

Nobody was hurt in the attack but police are now targeting the bus route along Church Hill Way.

Insp Gareth Prosser said: "When we launched the operation, we said we would put covert operations on certain routes and we are now going to target the particular area where the last incident occurred."

The operation has met with support from passengers and drivers, who provided police with encouraging comments.

And First Midland Red expressed cautious optimism at the operation's initial success.

But Mr Prosser said the police would not tolerate the attacks and would continue with the operation.

He said: "These offenders could find themselves facing serious charges if they are apprehended.

"Charges of criminal damage or charges far worse if someone gets injured."

Anyone with any information can call Redditch police on 584888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.