A petition has been launched to try and stop the cancellation of a 'vital' bus route in Stoke-on-Trent.

The number 90 service which connects Ball Green, Smallthorne, Haywood Hospital, and Tunstall is set to be axed today (25 September).

A petition aiming for decision makers to reconsider the move has already attracted 266 signatures. However, operator Stantons of Stoke says the service is no longer financially viable following changes to a school contract.

The petition claimed the route is popular with visitors to the Haywood Hospital.

The bus stops just outside, and acts as a 'lifeline' for vulnerable hospital patients and visitors. The petition also states there is a lack of alternative public transport to the walk-in centre.

Pete Carney who started the petition said: "The Number 90 bus serves Ball Green, Smallthorne, Haywood Hospital, and Tunstall. It's a lifeline for many, particularly vulnerable hospital patients, carers, and pensioners.

"The threat of its discontinuation on September 25th, 2026, casts a shadow over our community.

"What makes it worse is the lack of alternative public transport to Haywood Hospital, leaving several vulnerable people stranded.

"I urge the City Council and relevant authorities to reconsider this decision.

"Let's explore actionable solutions like public-private partnerships, funding reallocations, or timetable adjustments to ensure this service remains operational. We must protect not just a bus route, but a critical aspect of our community's healthcare infrastructure.

"I'm calling on everyone who values community support and effective healthcare access in Stoke-on-Trent to join me."

Passenger Sue Ratcliffe from Tunstall said: "I use this bus occasionally. It's good when I need to go to the Haywood or to see my friends but it's not an all day service which is the downside to it."

In a statement the bus company said the route was tied to a school contract with Stoke-on-Trent City Council which has now been cancelled. They added that the costs of running the service were not viable and thanked loyal passengers.

A spokesperson for Stantons of Stoke said: "With regards to the 90 Service, We won a contract with Stoke City Council to operate it for 12 months in May 2018, we tied the Service around a School Contract that enabled us to run the Service commercially up until this date.

"During August this year for some unknown reason Stoke on Trent City Council cancelled the School Contract 24 months into a 36 months contract.

"Unfortunately, this has meant that the operation of the 90 service is simply not viable as the costs simply outweigh income.

"It's sad as we have built a reputation for being punctual and reliable. However, we just simply can not run at a loss.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our loyal passengers who have used the service over the years."