BUS wars formally began in the town yesterday as First Eastern Counties introduced its new services on the eastern side of the town.

And it showed off one of its newest vehicles on the town’s Cornhill as it tries to tempt passengers on to its new services along Foxhall Road.

The move means First Buses are going head to head with Ipswich Buses on services in the east of the town – the borough-owned company has stepped up the battle by increasing the number of services on routes in that part of town.

Both companies have also introduced new and promotional fares in an attempt to entice new passengers.

As First unveiled its new livery, commercial director Steve Wickers admitted the move had not been universally welcomed: “There has been a bit of a mixed reaction – passengers don’t like it when services change and we had to expect that.

“But there is a demand for improved services – especially a fast link from Ravenswood to the railway station and that is what we are providing.”