BUS routes run by a crisis-hit Kidderminster company have been thrown into doubt due to a staff exodus.

Whittle Coach and Bus Ltd has seen drivers leave the firm after it was put up for sale by Hull-based owners EYMS Group Limited.

Last week, The Shuttle reported how the company was actively seeking a new buyer for the business due to losses incurred over a number of years. If a new owner isn’t found Whittle, which was established in 1929, would cease trading putting dozens of jobs under threat.

A spokesman for EYMS confirmed that an “urgent review” of services was now taking place.

He said: “As a result of the announcement that Whittle Coach & Bus has been put up for sale a number of our staff have, understandably, sought and found alternative employment.

“As a result of these staffing pressures we are conducting an urgent review of our services and are in close contact with Worcestershire County Council to ensure the continued provision of services in the short term until a longer term solution is found.”

Whittle Coach and Bus Ltd was established in 1929 and runs services across Wyre Forest, Stourbridge, Halesowen and Brignorth from its Kidderminster base.

It has an annual turnover of almost £4m, split between local bus services, coach operations, including day trips, private charter and holiday tours, and operations on contract to National Express.

This latest news comes as former owner Ron Whittle spoke of his sadness at the plight of his family’s old business.

Mr Whittle, aged 71, who is now a councillor for Bridgnorth Town Council, said: “This is very sad news.

“The business has been around for a long time and I would like to see it succeed. Our whole family feels sad about this situation and would obviously like to see the Whittles name continue in the area.

“I knew they were struggling but EYMS made a significant investment in the company when they took over and it is a shame that it hasn’t worked out.

“The reduction in the Government’s Bus Operators Fuel Duty Subsidy has not helped at all and has put pressure on all operators.”