SOUTH Yorkshire Police have confirmed they have increased patrols in Darfield after Stagecoach buses were targeted by vandals on three separate occasions prompting them to temporarily suspend services in the area after dark.

The 219 and 27 services which run through Darfield have this week been cancelled after 7pm.

Reports of vandalism including smashed windows on buses have led to the decision being made which has left locals with no way home from the town centre after dark.

The police confirmed to the Chronicle this week that gangs of youths caused damage to buses in Darfield on September 18, 23 and 26.

Darfield Couns Kevin Osborne and Pauline Markham have called on Stagecoach to reinstate the ‘vital’ service to support residents.

The closure is due to be in place until tomorrow night.

The Chronicle understands that once the closure order will be lifted tomorrow and not continue like it did in Thurnscoe back in October 2022 which prompted Stagecoach to suspend services ‘indefinitely’.

Couns Osborne and Markham told the Chronicle: “We are concerned that these changes to evening bus services will have an adverse impact on Darfield residents, leaving some without access to vial public transport links.

“Of course, the safety of bus drivers and the travelling public must be ensured, which is why we wholeheartedly condemn those individuals involved in appalling acts of criminal damage to buses.

“We are working with South Yorkshire Police to ensure those responsible are held to account.

“We are calling on Stagecoach to prioritise getting these services back running and serving the public in a way that is safe.

“The vast majority of decent Darfield people cannot be left high and dry because of the criminal actions of a mindless few.”

Richard Ullyott, the Labour candidate for Darfield, added that locals need a ‘swift response’.

He said: “Buses are more than a mode of public transport they are a lifeline for local communities and enable residents young and old to get around our borough.

“It is deeply worrying that, because of these appalling acts of damage, Darfield residents are left paying the price.

“We need to see swift action from Stagecoach, supported by partners, to get this sorted.”

Coun Osborne said that he will work to ensure that does not happen and that those involved in the damage are dealt with.

He added: “The recent surge in antisocial behaviour in Darfield is completely unacceptable.

“It’s causing serious disruption to our local bus services and putting both passengers and staff at risk.

“Let me be clear the safety of our community is non-negotiable.

“This is the reckless behaviour of a small minority who seem determined to ruin it for everyone else.

“I’ll work with South Yorkshire Police and transport providers to ensure these individuals are identified, held accountable, and face the consequences of their actions.”

A spokesperson for Stagecoach told the Chronicle that they would be happy to speak with councillors about their concern and that they’ll reinstate the service as soon as it is ‘safe to do so’.

They also called on locals with any information to get in touch with the police, saying that quite often the perpetrators are well known within the area affected.

They added: “Safety is always our highest priority. We have a duty of care to our drivers and our loyal customers, and we are very keen to take a common-sense approach and restore normal service as soon as it is safe to do so. We have been supported by the police and the local community, for which we are most grateful.

“We would be very happy to talk to any elected officials about how safety can be restored for everyone.”

Barnsley Neighbourhoods Inspector Rebecca Richardson said: “We will not tolerate this reckless behaviour.

“It isn’t harmless fun and could lead to someone getting seriously hurt so it is really important that we find those responsible.

“We have increased patrols in the area to offer reassurance to residents and I would encourage anyone with concerns to please contact our officers if you see them out and about. People should be able to use our bus services safely and I would urge anyone with information about those who may have done this to please contact us.”