The director of a local family-run bus and coach company has slammed youths who he believes were responsible for smashing one of his vehicle's windows.

The window of the bus was smashed earlier today while in service on its regular route through the Highercroft Estate, with shards spreading across the floor and seating.

Paul Critchley, director of Blackburn Private Hire Ltd, said that the incident happened at around 3.45pm in Newfield Drive, while passengers were still on the number 12 bus.

Paul said: "The driver was just on a normal bus route around the estate when someone threw something.

"The driver asked everyone if they were okay and thankfully they were as no one was too close to it.

"It could have been much worse - a passenger could have been hit or the driver could have, and he could have then swerved and crashed."

Paul also owns several other transport services, including Dreamline Travel, with the bus services being relatively new.

The service caters for many elderly people in the area and makes around £60-£70 a day.

According to Paul, several buses in his line have been targeted before and the latest incident could mean that the number 12 service may be withdrawn entirely due to costs associated with repairs.

He added: "There is no point carrying on the service if we are having to pay more than what we take in.

"The window will cost around £600-£1,000 to repair, depending on where we go.

"With buses, you know you have to pay that kind of money to repair the damage.

"Where are the parents of these kids doing this damage?"

Paul added that he reported the incident to Lancashire Police, who have been contacted for comment.