THE former owner of a historic closure-threatened bus company that serves Halesowen has spoken of his sadness of its demise.

Last week, The News reported how Whittle Coach and Bus Ltd has been put on the market by Hull-based owners EYMS Group Limited due to losses incurred over a number of years.

Ron Whittle, who ran his family’s firm for 40 years until it was sold to Hull-based EYMS Group Limited in 2004, said he hoped a new buyer could be found to safeguard the future of the company.

EYMS are actively seeking a new buyer for the company but have warned that the business could fold if one is not found.

Mr Whittle, aged 71, said: “This is very sad news. The business has been around for a long time and is only 12 years off its centenary and I would like to see it succeed.

“Our whole family feels sad about this situation and would obviously like to see the Whittle’s name continue in the area.

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

The company dates from 1929 and runs services across a wide area from its Kidderminster base, with an annual turnover of almost £4 million.