COMMUTERS on a key bus line between Alloa and Stirling were left terrified following acts of vandalism towards the windows.

Passengers travelling on the McGill’s 52 bus service as it passed through Tillicoultry fell victim to stones being thrown towards them.

This occurred on the evening of Thursday, September 19, with several piercing the windows and landing near people on the bus.

The vehicle’s windows were shattered as it passed through Main Street, Tillicoultry, forcing the bus company to send a replacement bus to carry on the service.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 9.35pm on September 19, police received a report of a bus being vandalised in Main Street, Tillicoultry.

“No-one was injured and enquiries are ongoing.”

Residents have voiced fears that this is becoming an ongoing issue, with one speaking to the Advertiser to relay concerns that people could get hurt.

They said: “If left unchallenged, things could escalate which could lead to injuries or even traffic incidents or something similar.

“This appears to be a growing concern with local people who use public transport.”

McGill's strongly condemned the vandalism, confirming they will be assisting police in tracing those responsible.

A spokesperson for Midland Bluebird said: "We can confirm one of our vehicles on the 52 route was hit by a missile around Tillicoultry on Thursday evening at approximately 8.45pm.

"Thankfully no passengers were injured but the vehicle had to be withdrawn from service causing inconvenience to passengers. 

“These are criminal acts and we will provide information to police to assist them in identifying perpetrators.

"We would be rightly shocked if people were subject to such attacks whilst in a cafe or shop - it should be no different for the public or our staff when they are aboard a bus and such actions could lead to serious injury or even a traffic accident."