A DAD has been left angry after his children were left at the side of the road by a bus driver as they tried to make their way to school.

Scott Manhood, 45, of Ramsey, was upset after both of his children and his niece were told they were not allowed on the First Buses bus due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Social distancing guidelines have meant bus companies have had to limit the number of people who are allowed to board the bus.

Mr Manhood said the situation has left dozens of people on roadside with many vulnerable people having to wait up to an hour and a half for the next bus.

His children were unable to get on the 103 and 104 service between Harwich and Colchester to go to school and sixth form college.

Mr Manhood said: “I was aware people have been left standing at the bus stop but the situation has escalated.

“Both of my children were told only one could get on because it was at capacity.

Gazette: The 103 and 104 service have been disruptedThe 103 and 104 service have been disrupted

“My eldest daughter, who is 16, explained they are part of the same household and are more than happy to sit together.

“The driver then said his computer wouldn’t allow anybody else on, so she would have to wait for the next bus which was an hour and a half later.

“My son told me everyone at the High Street stop in Colchester when he was there was turned away, including elderly people.

“I accept there are guidelines which need to be followed, but the children have been back for weeks now.”

Steve Hartman, operations manager at First Colchester said: “Our drivers are trying to manage capacity the best they can and are aware of the frustrations customers are feeling when a bus turns up full, but while we have Covid guidelines in place to help protect everyone’s wellbeing the present circumstance is likely to continue for the time being.

“We monitor every journey and service operated each day and where we can, we are introducing additional buses where needed to accommodate for the extra demand.”

“It is important to stress we are still adhering to the government guidelines on social distancing and limited capacities on board.

“I apologise for any inconvenience caused with the situation but first and foremost we need to help protect everyone who travels with us.”