Boris bus-ts Croydon yobs

3:40pm Monday 19th May 2008

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London's Mayor Boris Johnson took up the challenge of riding one of Croydon's buses with a local resident today after she confronted him about the antisocial behaviour and crime on public transport.

Maureen Reynolds met the Mayor on Friday when he launched new police teams in the borough and she invited him to see for himself the type of behaviour on the local buses.

So this morning Mr Johnson joined Maureen on the number 407 bus from West Croydon to Purley High Street in the Monday rush hour.

During the ride Maureen talked to the mayor about her experiences of the bus network, which she claimed was spoilt by unruly youngsters.

The Mayor also met other locals and chatted about their ideas for improving the situation.

After the trip Maureen said: "This is a side of politicians that you don't often get to see, and I think it is good that we've got a Mayor who is listening.

"This route, and the bus station, can be rowdy with all the kids but having some officers around clearly makes a difference. It felt different this morning on the bus and at the station, and I'm hoping that will last and that the trouble will be got to grips with."

And Mr Johnson said: "On the campaign trail before the election, people from all over London told me time and time again that they wanted their city to be safer. This is why I have made cutting crime and antisocial behaviour my top priority as Mayor.

"Obviously it's not always possible to take up these offers, but as Mayor I intend to listen to all Londoners, and to respond to their ideas for making the capital better.

"I have promised Mrs Reynolds, and all Londoners, that I will work tirelessly to put a stop to the crime and antisocial behaviour that is making life unbearable for people across the capital.

"The creation of the new police teams with some 440 extra officers is a key element which, along with our work to improve youth provision and tackle the scourge of knives, will start to give Londoners back the confidence to travel around their city free from the fear of crime."