City bus fares are to rise by up to 25% – the second price increase in the past seven months.

Brighton and Hove Bus and Coach Company yesterday became the latest company to increase its fares, blaming rising fuel prices for the decision.

One day saver tickets in Brighton and Hove bought from the driver or in shops will rise from £4 to £4.40 from April 22 and a weekly ticket will go up from £17.50 to £19.

However, the company has frozen online fares.

It means passengers who use the new smartcard can still buy weekly tickets for £15 and one day savers for £3.20.

Passenger groups welcomed the freeze in web-based fares but said the above inflation rise on cash tickets was bad news for travellers.

The bus company cites the reduction in fuel subsidy by the Government which equates to a 9p per litre increase in costs along with the 3p rise in duty which is due to be introduced in August.

The bus company said its annual fuel bill is set to rise by more than £2 million to almost £7 million.

Five years ago its fuel cost £3 million a year.

Roger French, the firm's managing director, said: “Just like every other motorist we have got the same fuel increases.

"In some parts of the country bus companies are withdrawing services that are not economic but we don’t see that as being a suitable course of action.

“I think it is outrageous that airlines can get their fuel completely free of any duty but bus companies have to pay 18p a litre.

“My message is don’t pay the increase. Save money and get a smart-card. Compared to many bus companies we are giving people the option not to pay the increase.”

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