First Bus bans under-16s in Stoke-on-Trent travelling alone after 6pm after disorder

First Bus has banned passengers aged 15 and under from traveling alone after 6 p.m. in Stoke-on-Trent, effective Friday and “until further notice,” citing multiple incidents of antisocial behavior since free travel for kids aged 5 to 15 launched across England on 1 August. The company said police were called after an incident at Hanley bus station involving more than 100 young people acting “intimidating and aggressive way.” First Bus regional director Simon Mathieson told BBC Radio Stoke drivers felt unsafe and some passengers trying to get home also reported feeling unsafe. He added that one driver said children were swinging strap handles and running around the bus while in motion. First Bus said it made the change to protect staff and customers. The report also notes contrasting debate over enforcement, with comparisons to fines and proposed Scottish legislation on codes of conduct for concessionary travel users.