Medway bus firm Arriva Southern Counties is launched its own fuel protest in Chatham earlier today.

The ‘Start your own fuel protest – catch the bus’ campaign is part of efforts to get more people using public transport.

'Protesters' stood outside The Pentagon Centre on Military Road for two hours at lunchtime to encourage car users to pledge their support and take action against rising fuel costs by leaving the car at home and taking the bus.

Members of the public were also be invited to take part in a bus:car cost comparison exercise in return for free bus travel.

Richard Lewis, marketing manager for Arriva Southern Counties, said: “In the current economic climate, people are increasingly watching what they are spending and we believe that buses offer a way for people to reduce their travel costs.

“Buses offer great value for people travelling in and out of towns and cities.

"There are no car parking charges and, with the car being left at home, it’s better for the environment.

“An added benefit of travelling by bus is that you can sit back, relax and let the driver worry about the traffic.”