COUNCIL bosses should be allowed to order First Bus to run a more affordable, more regular service in Worcester, Transport Secretary Alistair Darling has been told.

Worcester's delegate at the Labour conference, Paul Denham, said a regulated service would get more people on buses and help to tackle congestion.

He had been impressed by statistics showed a 15 per cent rise in passenger numbers since 2000 in London - the only place in Britain where bus services are regulated. Passengers can make any journey in the capital for £1.

Councillor Denham, deputy leader of Worcester City Council's Labour Group, put his case to Mr Darling at the conference hall in Bournemouth yesterday.

"I know Worcester is not the same as London, but being able to force First to run buses at certain times and at affordable prices would make a big difference," he said.

"I have a teenage daughter and because of the infrequent service, we have to act as a taxi service. If the buses ran more regularly and at the times they are needed, she would be able to use the bus."