VANDALS fired a catapult at a double-decker bus as it travelled along a dark country lane at Botley.

The weapon was fired at such force that the stone smashed through a passenger window, bending the frame.

Bus chiefs do not know how many passengers were on board at the time but one person was left shocked and shaken after being showered with glass.

The ambush happened at about 6pm yesterday as the Solent Blue Line bus was slowing for a junction along Grange Road.

The stone smashed through the window and hit a window on the other side. Repairs were carried and the bus was back in service today.

As the hunt continued for the mindless vandal, a Solent Blue Line chief described it as an absolutely appalling incident. Bob Dorr, service delivery director, said: "This was fired at such a lethal force that it not only broke the window but was enough to bend the window frame.

"If this missile had hit someone on the head it might have led to a fatality. The person who did this is not a reasonable person."

Mr Dorr said that if the missile had hit the driver there could have been a very serious or fatal accident. He said: "We want to work very closely with the police to identify the person responsible for this so action can be taken."

Mr Dorr said that fortunately the catapult incident was not a common occurrence but added: "Steps have to be taken to protect the lives of the travelling public."

An Eastleigh police spokesman said: "This was a very reckless thing to do and could have caused serious injuries to members of the public."

Witnesses should contact police on 08450 45 45 45.