Bus drivers given DNA 'spit kits'

The samples will be sent for analysis and used in a prosecution

Bus drivers in a resort town are the latest to be issued with DNA testing kits to help catch spitting yobs.

The sterile swabs, used to keep saliva for testing by police against national DNA databases, have been handed to all Yellow Buses drivers in Bournemouth.

A Dorset Police spokesman said the force would have "no hesitation" in arresting anyone caught spitting.

The bus drivers' union said the kits would be a "reassurance" to staff.

Derek Lott, of Yellow Buses, said: "Thankfully, incidents involving spitting are few and far between but, as far as I'm concerned, one incident is too many.

"We will not tolerate such behaviour. Our staff deserve, and will get, the company's full support in tackling this issue."

James Wall, branch secretary of the Transport and General Workers' Union, added: "It will give a feeling of added security to our members as well as the reassurance that if they are the victim of spitting, follow-up action can now be taken."