A £1.7 MILLION fleet of 12 new passenger-friendly buses has been launched in York.

First has introduced the low floor buses for the No 6 (purple line) between Clifton Moor, York Hospital, the city centre, Tang Hall and Osbaldwick.

First said the buses were more user-friendly with easier low-floor access for all passengers - in particular making it easier for parents with pushchairs, wheelchair users and the elderly to use.

The company said the vehicles would improve the quality and reliability of the No 6, which operates a high-frequency service, and that they would boost the comfort of passengers.

It said the buses included new engines designed to reduce emissions and pollution.

Jonathan Stewart, of First York, said: "This large financial investment by First is excellent news for all passengers who use No 6 and shows our commitment to driving forward our plans for continued improvement for bus users in York."

Alison Hughes, director of strategy and planning at York Hospital, said: "We want our patients and visitors to arrive at the hospital on time and in a relaxed state. Letting the bus take the strain is a great way of doing this.

"The trust is really pleased that First have chosen to upgrade the main service to the hospital."

First said the fleet was part of a modernisation programme to improve the quality of buses in the city.

The firm has committed to spending £8 million in York this year on 44 new vehicles, which will be split between the city's Park&Ride sites and other key routes across the city.

All the buses will be fitted with internal and external CCTV to help offer extra security.