Bus services partially suspended after attacks

Bus services have been partially suspended to a Londonderry estate after a spate of stone-throwing attacks.

Translink has confirmed that the Foyle Metro 12 and 13 services to the Galliagh area will finish at 1900 GMT for the rest of the week.

The 12 service will be diverted to Carnhill, and the 13 service will operate along Steelstown Road in both directions.

Sinn Féin Councillor Sandra Duffy described the attacks as "dangerous and frightening for motorists".

"This isn't funny; it's not a bit of craic," said Duffy.

"It is, in fact, dangerous and frightening for motorists.

"It has now completely inconvenienced the community and left much of the area without a bus service."

SDLP Councillor Brian Tierney said the late-night buses were vital for people returning from work or the city centre, and they would now be forced to make alternative arrangements following what he called "mindless attacks".

He has asked parents to make sure their children are not involved in the incidents.

"This is not the first time we have seen services withdrawn in the Shantallow area, and the local community is sick and tired of their lives being disrupted in this way," he said.

"Bus drivers are public servants, and they have the right to feel safe when doing their jobs. Nobody should be subjected to attacks of this nature."

He said he hoped the services would return to normal on Monday.

Translink said it would continue to monitor the situation and liaise with the police and local politicians.

"We also operate a reward scheme, which pays out up to £1,000 to anyone who witnesses and gives evidence of any incident of anti-social behaviour or vandalism that results in a successful conviction," a spokesperson said.