Passengers in Weymouth and west Dorset are being reassured that buses are being protected against Covid-19 thanks to 'revolutionary' virus-killing treatment.

Operator First Wessex is adding a new, long-lasting sanitising treatment to its daily cleaning regime.

The special treatment, being rolled out across the fleet, is environmentally-friendly, uses no alcohol or dangerous chemicals and is scientifically proven to be highly effective against Covid-19, First said.

The treatment complements the bus operator’s already enhanced cleaning regime and robust safety procedures, making travel on its services as safe as possible for its customers and drivers.

The company will treat its fleet and depot every four weeks using a portable fogging device which creates an 'invisible shield' that attracts and kills coronavirus and other germs on surfaces for 28 days after its application.

This follows recent measures taken to reduce the passenger capacity of each bus by more than 75 per cent with clear seat markings in place, and the launch of a new feature on the mobile app which shows customers in real time how many seats are available on their next bus, its precise location and how long before it is due to arrive at their stop.

Marc Reddy, Managing Director of First Wessex, said: “We are determined to do all we can to protect our customers and colleagues at this time. Our buses are essential for those who need to travel and we want everyone to understand that it is safe to use our buses.

"Whilst we are doing whatever we can to look after our drivers and customers, passengers can make a difference too: By only traveling when feeling well, avoiding travel during peak hours, adhering to social distancing, using cashless and wearing a face covering. In these challenging times, it is important we all look after each other and be kind to one another.”

First Wessex continues to encourage cashless payments and the use of its app to purchase tickets, reducing the need for contact between customers and drivers.

Passengers must wear face coverings when travelling from Monday, June 15 in line with a government directive.

* For timetable information visit www.firstgroup.com/wessex-dorset-south-somerset/