Coach services to Gatwick airport are being slashed as a result of the downturn in passenger numbers.

Gatwick has been one of the hardest-hit airports in Europe from the decrease in the number of travellers since the September 11 terrorist attacks.

The Jetlink coach service has operated out of Brighton to Gatwick every half-hour during the day but will only run an hourly service from Monday, March 25.

Steve Way, commercial director for the National Express airport services division, said: "While passenger numbers on the network are relatively stable, demand for the Brighton services fluctuate considerably.

"This often results in the over-provision of services between Brighton and Gatwick.

"The majority of Jetlink passengers book in advance so we will closely monitor bookings and ensure additional resources and vehicles are made available at times when we know the service is going to be busy."