BUS users have been left confused why the newly launched Worcester Express service goes straight past them without stopping.

Jon Baddeley, of Ripon Road, Ronkswood, said people have told him they did not understand why, when waiting at the bus stops on Newtown Road, the Worcester Express wouldn't pick them up.

He feels information has not been passed on to bus users to explain the difference between First, the main commercial bus operator for Worcester, and the county council-run Worcester Express, which was launched last Monday.

He said: "We were not told that First and Worcester Express were two separate entities. A lot people still do not understand it. Why run a service that does not stop at bus stops? It is confusing."

Lorna Philips, the service's project manager, clarified the situation. She said Worcester Express is working in partnership with First. The commercial operator has provided the scheme with the buses and drivers.

Mrs Philips said that if the Worcester Express services were to stop on Newtown Road it would take business away from First.

She said: "It is in the spirit of partnership. Newtown Road is well served by First already. If there is a good service there, there is no reason for Worcester Express buses stop there.

"There are many Worcester Express stops around the Warndon area as it is not so well served."

A number of people have also contacted the Worcester News wanting to know why there are no services to St John's, Bath Road and St Peter's.

Mrs Philips said: "In the long term we will be looking at all areas of Worcester. This is just the first phase.

"First we need the services that we have put on to be successful. It isn't that we are ignoring other areas."