The Girlguiding Oxfordshire charity-branded double decker was damaged after a metal pole was hurled at it from a bridge.

The metal object struck the upper deck window of the Oxford Bus Company bus, piercing the glass and leaving the missile lodged in it.

It was thrown at the moving bus from the Barns Road bridge over the Eastern bypass while it was returning to the depot in Cowley on Saturday. The quick-witted driver pulled the bus over and alerted his depot.

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Oxford Bus Company reported the incident to Thames Valley Police and have appealed for any witnesses to contact police.

Oxford Mail:

Phil Southall, Oxford Bus Company Managing Director,, said: “Thankfully no-one was injured in this mindless act of vandalism.

"The vehicle was not in service at the time and therefore did not have any passengers on-board. 

"It was a frightening incident for our driver colleague who reacted quickly and efficiently.

"Everyone was shocked when the bus returned to the depot and we saw the damage. The attack could have caused a serious injury.

Oxford Mail:

"We are appealing for any witnesses to contact the police and urge people to refrain from such actions in the future.”

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The damaged bus was one of Oxford Bus Company’s branded vehicles in support of local good causes and charities.

Oxford Mail:

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It is wrapped with Girlguiding Oxfordshire branding after it won the last ‘Brand the Bus’ competition. 

Thames Valley Police confirmed it is investigating the incident, which happened at about 6.30pm.

A spokeswoman said: "If anyone has any information about what happened they are asked to contact police by calling 101 or making a report online, quoting reference 43200376597."