Smoking inspectors for coaches

SMOKERS who light up on coaches face a £50 on the spot fine by plain clothed bus inspectors.

The inspectors will be introduced on National Express coaches this month to crack down on smokers breaking the law.

Smoking in enclosed public spaces has been banned since 2007.

The fine must be paid within 28 days but reduced to £30 if paid within 14 days.

And passengers have been urged to report smokers by texting 07624 818 332. Begin the text with the word ‘bus’ and provide details.

In a press release, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council said it had ‘teamed up’ with the firm but did not give details.

The Silhillian asked the council’s communications department on Tuesday if this meant the authority was putting cash into the scheme but did not receive a replay.

In the statement, cabinet member for safer communities, Councillor Diana Holl-Allen said: “Although most travellers abide by no smoking rules, some continue to disregard the law and disrupt the journeys of others.

“This project will punish those that offend, in the hope of achieving completely smoke-free public transport.”

Tony Dallison, of National Express West Midlands, said: “We take this kind of anti-social behaviour very seriously.”