A petition arguing against the move, with over 70 names, has been put together.

Residents turned out in force at Southwater Parish Council on September 24 to make their views known to transport chiefs.

Representatives from Horsham District Council, West Sussex County Council and bus operator Arriva were at the meeting.

They argued that the section of the 98 bus route which takes in Foxfield Cottages and Andrews Road should be axed because it is difficult for drivers to negotiate and leads to delays.

But residents said attempts should be made to solve the problems before taking away their lifeline service.

Southwater Parish Council plans to liaise with the bus partnership and police to see if it can find a way forward.

The service is due to be withdrawn either at the end of the year or at the beginning of next year.

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