Driver and passenger safety is Lothian’s top priority following a spate of ‘mindless’ attacks on buses in Niddrie this morning.

A total of five vehicles were targeted by youths during the hours of 5:30-8:30am in the Hay Drive area of Niddrie.

The sustained and violent attacks led to police presence in the area after repeated 999 calls.

One driver reported a youth cycling towards the bus before launching a missile straight at the windscreen, showering him in glass as a result.

Richard Hall, managing director said: “Such needless attacks on our buses endanger our drivers and our customers.

“It is extremely fortunate on this occasion that no one was hurt by these mindless acts of violence and vandalism. Our drivers have the right to feel safe. It is of great regret that today some of our drivers were subject to these attacks. Those who perpetrate these incidents have no awareness of the massive impact they have on our drivers. We will have no hesitation in withdrawing our services in the area if such activity continues.

“We continue to work closely with our partners Police Scotland to provide a safe and reliable service for our customers.”

Sergeant Daniel Wynne from Craigmillar Police Station said: “We are appealing to anyone who was in the area of Niddrie Mains Drive this morning and saw anything suspicious, or saw a small group of youths on pedal bikes loitering in the area to get in touch. Edinburgh relies on its public transport network, particularly at this time of the day, and our commuters and tourists were massively inconvenienced due to vehicles being put off the road for repair. As well as the damage caused to the buses, this behaviour is reckless and puts people at risk of being injured. Bus drivers provide a public service and should not have to put up with being targeted in this way.”