WE are asking for bus passengers to Shop a Driver' if they see them using mobile phones at the wheel - after a string of complaints.

A number of bus-users have spoken out after spotting Arriva drivers flouting the law while negotiating busy roads - putting lives at risk.

Now we want information about them to pass on to the bus company, which says disciplinary action is taken against anyone who is found to be using their mobiles while driving its vehicles.

One shocked passenger who saw a driver texting on a route, said: "I predict it is only a matter of time before the cocky driver who texts and speaks to people on his mobile and risks the safety of his passengers and other roads users, is in involved in a terrible accident."

The bus users are calling for drivers to leave their phones in the office after spotting a number of them using their handsets while ferrying passengers.

However Arriva says it is useful if a driver breaks down or needs assistance for them to have a phone with them.

In a letter to our Midweek newspaper, one passenger who saw a driver using a phone, said: "They need to take seriously passenger safety.

"They should make sure by making their drivers leave their mobile phones at the bus station whilst they are working after all it's illegal to use them whilst driving anyway.

"Add to that the fact that the road conditions in High Wycombe are constantly changing due to the re-development work taking place, I can't see how the driver in question can possibly think it okay to take his eye off the road for even a split second."

Gude Camara, from Totteridge, who uses Arriva services across High Wycombe, said: "I have seen drivers who use their mobile phones. I saw one when I was on a bus leaving the bus station.

"It is problem because if a driver is using his phone it is very, very dangerous."

Another passenger, who did not wish to be named said: "I have seen bus drivers on mobile phones and I think you are breaking the law."

Another added: "About three weeks ago, I was on the bus from High Wycombe when the driver answered the phone while he was driving.

"In fairness, he did say he'd have to call the person back, but he answered the phone while driving."

Meanwhile Linsey Frostick, Arriva customer services manager for the Shires and Essex, said: "We investigate all comments that customers provide us with. Disciplinary action is taken against drivers who are found to be using their mobile phones.

"The safety of all our customers is of the utmost importance and the use of mobile phones whilst driving will not be tolerated.

"Drivers are fully aware of the law regarding the use of mobile phones and if caught they could lose their licence and therefore their job. We would ask customers to contact us if they are concerned at all regarding the behaviour of our drivers.

"Whilst I understand the comments regarding leaving mobile phones at the depot, it is useful if a driver breaks down or requires assistance for them to have a phone with them.

"I have forwarded the details to the depot manager for him to make investigations and remind all drivers of their obligations regarding the safe carriage of customers and the restrictions on use of mobile phones.

"Buses don't have the technology available to install radio at the depots and to put it on buses would be at a considerable cost.

"It is not something we feel is necessary at this time. Drivers should only use their mobiles when they have broken down or if they need advice when they are stationary."

Arriva's customer service team can be contacted on 0844 800 4411.