A vital bus service linking Canvey and Southend is facing the axe.

First Bus is to stop the 3, 3A, 3B and 3C services from the island to Southend from next month before new services are introduced across south Essex.

Janice Harris, 43, of Central Avenue, Canvey, said: "I find this totally unacceptable when the Government is working towards people using public transport rather than cars.

"It is completely irresponsible of the organisation to even consider such an action."

Mum Janice has a 17-year-old son, Craig, who does not drive and is trying to find work off the island.

She said: "Who wants to employ someone that can't get to work easily or who is worn out from changing buses throughout the morning just to reach their goal?"

Castle Point MP Bob Spink has written to director at First for details of the company's replacement service

Chris McCormick, divisional manager for First Essex Buses, said: "Although this service will be withdrawn there will be enhanced services introduced across a new network."

First Essex Buses will realise details of the new network on June 6.

Published Monday, May 19, 2003

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