A BUS operator has announced proposals to discontinue its services in Hereford.

First Midlands also plans to close its depot on Friars Street when it withdraws all services from September 5.

A consultation on possible redundancies is already under way, with up to 40 jobs at risk.

In a statement, First said its operations in Hereford have not been viable for a number of years and there is not enough passenger demand to continue.  

Nigel Eggleton, managing director of First Midlands, said: "Im disappointed that we are proposing to withdraw services in Hereford, but regrettably, we see no alternative.

"Despite our best efforts and hard work, only 3,500 customers per day travel on our buses. That level of demand is not enough to warrant a stand-alone bus operation."

The continuing challenging economy has also contributed to First's proposed withdrawal, it said.

The bus operator is engaging with Herefordshire Council on the future of bus services in the area.

Nigel Eggleton added: "Our proposals do not, in any way, reflect on the commitment of colleagues in Hereford who have worked tirelessly to provide the best possible service to the local community.

"I'd like to thank them for their hard work and loyalty. We will be doing everything we can to assist everyone affected and will actively support any of employees who may wish to transfer to other First operations."

In a statement, Herefordshire Council said it was sorry to hear the news of the depot closure and the consequent loss of jobs.

"Herefordshire Council has not reduced any subsidies to First Midland despite the recent budget cuts and most of their services are operated on a commercial basis," it said.

"Herefordshire Council is confident that other operators in the county will replace the lost services and we will work hard to ensure continuity of bus services in Herefordshire.“