The decision by First Bus to withdraw services in East Lothian has been met with disappointment from local Scottish Conservative politicians.
Rachael Hamilton MSP, South of Scotland said:
“This is devastating news for the 88 workers in the area and their families, and they need to be supported throughout this upsetting process. People who depend on these services, particularly the elderly and those in rural areas, will also be concerned. For many, their local bus service is a lifeline, and these closures will impact them badly.
“People across East Lothian will also feel First Bus is leaving them in the lurch in order to improve services elsewhere.
“I hope the Scottish Government can work with First Bus and other operators to ensure services remain at least to the same standard in these areas. It’s very disappointing that financial pressures have forced this move."
Meanwhile Councillor Michael Veitch, East Lothian Council's spokesman for transport and roads said the decision had not come as a surprise sighting indications that the company was likely to withdraw services after it requested undertakings be put in place when it was linked to rail services being scrapped.
Councillor Veitch said: "While any deterioration of bus services in the county is a matter of regret, we are fortunate to have various high-quality bus companies already operating commercial services in our area and it may be hoped that one of more of these may be interested in serving some or all of these routes.
"I have already had discussions with East Lothian Council transport officers, SEStran and Iain Gray MSP, and am confident that everyone involved will be working hard to minimise or avoid any disruption to service."