The officers will ride on buses and help keep routes clear

The �180,000 Newport Transport scheme will see four officers riding the routes for the next three years.

The firm spent around �80,000 last year replacing broken windows on its buses.

Managing director Trevor Roberts said: "The very visible presence of the PSCOs will generate a safer environment for public transport in Newport."

The company, which carries around eight million passengers a year, said the PSCOs will also be able to help keep bus routes in the city running smoothly as they will have traffic enforcement powers.

Gwent Police, whose officers have patrolled the city's buses since 2003, has welcomed initiative.

'Blinded'

The problem of youths attacking buses with stones and other missiles has been a growing problem over the years.

Bus driver Alan Smith nearly lost his eyesight after chemicals were thrown at his face through an open window.

He said: "My cab window was open. It was a glorious day. The next thing I knew there was a terrific bang alongside my ear and I had some kind of fluid on my face and it completely blinded me.

"How I brought the bus to a standstill I do not know."

Graham Dally, chairman of Newport Transport, said: "While the railways which carry some two billions passengers a year have the British Transport Police, there is nothing specifically for the bus industry which carries more than five billion passengers a year.

"This initiative will make people feel safer using public transport in the city."