First Bus apologises for long wait after rugby match
First Bus has apologised after a massive queue formed at a bus stop after Bath Rugby’s match against Newcastle on Saturday. Hundreds of people were filmed queuing up on Milsom Street, while a ‘not in service’ bus sat nearby. Residents said the was queue was unusually large, even after a rugby match. One person told the Chronicle it was “probably 100 to 150m long”. Those waiting to catch a lift voiced their frustration on social media. One woman tweeted: “First bus... help the driver broken down on Millsom st and your customers in a Q going back as far as Waitrose!!! “Pull your fingers out First Bus and HELP !!!!!!!! ” The company explained help was on its way for two brokendown buses on the town’s park and ride service. But like everyone else – they got caught in the post-rugby rush. First Bus say sit was experiencing multiple issues which led to the long wait time. Chris Hanson, head of operations, said: “We experienced an issue with Lansdown Park and Rideon Saturday afternoon. “Unfortunately two buses experienced mechanical issues at the same time the rugby finished. “Two other buses and drivers were commandeered to cover; however due to the congestion following the rugby it took over 30 minutes to get from the bus station to Milsom Street. “The congestion also impeded our engineers attempts to get to the buses with issues. We are very sorry our customers had such a long wait due to this combination of circumstances.”