The county council said some drivers had already been receiving training on how to assist the disabled and elderly.

But from the end of 2005, the training will become compulsory. The move is aimed at ensuring vulnerable customers feel more "assured" when they travel.

The new county-wide training plan was announced on Saturday, to coincide with International Day of Disabled People.

Almost 1,000 bus drivers have achieved the set standard and have received a council certificate, along with a yellow and black badge identifying them as "disability aware", a local authority spokesman said.