Surprised residents could not believe their eyes when they returned home to find a new bus stop bay painted outside their homes.

They were even more astonished when they realised the road markings were almost 100ft from the nearest bus stop.

Council officials claim the bay was painted at its present location for safety reasons.

But residents of Hangleton Road, Hove, are demanding the bay is removed as it makes it illegal for them to park in the road outside their homes.

And when buses do stop there, the large vehicles block two driveways.

Residents Alan Bull, 36, and his partner Tracy Briant, 36, were astounded to find the large yellow letters had appeared outside their home while they were out shopping.

Tracy said: "There is enough room to fit three buses in it and we are lucky if we see one bus on time along this road.

"We were not notified about this. Surely they can't suddenly come along and paint a bus stop on a road without any consultation whatsoever."

Neighbour Louise Webb said: "I can't believe what has happened. The huge bus bay is nowhere near the bus stop. It is ridiculous.

"What is more, the buses are not stopping in the bay as it is so far from the nearest bus stop. It is a complete waste of time and money.

"Somebody has obviously made a mistake and we want the bay removed as it goes across our driveway."

Officials from Brighton and Hove City Council's transport department have promised to visit residents to discuss their concerns.

But a spokeswoman for the council said no mistake had been made.

She said: "The existing bus stop has been extended to the standard clearway specification for safety and access reasons.

"The council has worked in consultation with Brighton and Hove Bus and Coach Company to ensure passengers can get on and off the buses in safety."