A bus company planning to axe vital services in Rochford to reduce costs today announced a nine per cent annual profit increase.

Arriva, which has been attacked over plans to cut bus services in Hawkwell, Wakering and Barling, made £76million profit last year.

The Sunderland-based firm will use some of the cash to increase its dividend payout to shareholders by five per cent.

Arriva bosses have angered many residents, particularly in the Rochford district, by announcing plans to streamline rural services to cut costs. Critics claim the moves will leave many people, especially the elderly, stranded.

Rochford and Southend East MP, Sir Teddy Taylor, said: "Some 8,000 residents, including many elderly people, are affected and it is absolutely vital the night service is maintained."

Published Friday, March 8, 2002